Cebolla Ensalada Recipe

Introduction

You know those dishes that just make every meal better? Yeah, Cebolla Ensalada Recipe is one of those. This onion salad might be simple, but trust me, it’s got a way of stealing the show. Whether you’re piling it onto tacos, spooning it over grilled meats, or just eating it straight from the bowl (no judgment here!), this dish is a total game-changer for your taste buds.

I first came across this recipe at a family cookout. My cousin brought out a big bowl of something that looked basic, but when I took a bite—wow! The zing from the onions, the tangy dressing, and that fresh cilantro kick? It was everything I didn’t know I needed. Since then, this salad has been a must-have at my table. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to throw together.

So, if you’re ready for a fresh, vibrant side that goes with, well, just about everything, let’s dive into the magic of Cebolla Ensalada.

Ingredients for cebolla ensalada recipe

Alright, let’s get into the heart of it—what you’ll need to whip up this fresh and zesty cebolla ensalada recipe. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, and the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s the full list with measurements:

Fresh Produce (The Stars of the Show)

• 2 medium red onions: Thinly sliced. Red onions are the best choice for their mild sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 large tomatoes: Diced. Look for ripe, juicy ones for maximum flavor.
• ½ cup fresh cilantro: Chopped. Adds that classic earthy kick.

Pantry Staples (The Flavor Makers)

• 3 tablespoons white vinegar: This is the zippy base for the dressing. Apple cider vinegar or lime juice can work too.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to balance the acidity and adds a nice richness.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch to mellow out the sharpness of the onions and vinegar.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, but don’t be shy—it’s a key part of the flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground if possible for a bit of bite.

Optional Add-Ins For cebolla ensalada recipe

• 1 avocado: Sliced or diced for a creamy twist.
• 1 small jalapeño: Minced for a spicy kick.
• ½ cup diced mango or pineapple: Adds a sweet, tropical vibe.
• 1 lime: Zest and juice to brighten things up even more.

A Few Ingredient Tips

1. Pick the Best Onions: When shopping, look for firm red onions with no soft spots or bruising. A quick soak in water will mellow their sharpness.
2. Ripe Tomatoes Are Key: Overripe tomatoes might make the salad too watery, while underripe ones won’t bring enough sweetness. Go for that perfect in-between.
3. Fresh Cilantro Only: No dried substitutes here! Fresh cilantro is a must for that signature flavor.

How to Make cebolla ensalada recipe

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making Cebolla Ensalada is as easy as it gets, but a few little tips and tricks will help you nail that perfect balance of flavors. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a fresh, zesty salad ready to go in no time.

1: Preparing the Onions

The onions are the star of this dish, so you want to get them just right:

1. Slice the Onions: Peel and cut 2 medium red onions into thin slices. You’re going for those paper-thin half-moons that are light and crisp. A sharp knife or mandoline slicer works great here.
2. Soak the Onions: Place the sliced onions in a bowl of cold water. Add a splash of white vinegar (about 1 tablespoon) to the water. Let them soak for 10–15 minutes.
   • Why soak? This step takes the edge off the onion’s sharpness and makes them slightly milder and sweeter. It’s a game-changer, trust me.
3. Drain and Pat Dry: After soaking, drain the onions and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Set them aside.

2: Chopping the Veggies

Now let’s add some color and texture:

1. Dice the Tomatoes: Grab 2 large tomatoes and cut them into small, even cubes. This ensures every bite has a bit of tomato goodness.
2. Chop the Cilantro: Take ½ cup of fresh cilantro and roughly chop it. Keep the stems if you like—they pack tons of flavor!

3: Making the Dressing

The dressing is super simple, but it’s where all the magic happens:

1. In a small bowl, combine:
   • 3 tablespoons white vinegar
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil
   • 1 teaspoon sugar
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
2. Whisk It Up: Mix everything together until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Give it a quick taste and adjust the salt or vinegar if needed—it should be tangy and slightly sweet.

4: Assembling the Salad

Here’s where it all comes together:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • The drained and dried onion slices.
   • The diced tomatoes.
   • The chopped cilantro.
2. Pour Over the Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the veggies, making sure to coat everything evenly.
3. Toss Gently: Use a large spoon or your hands to toss the salad gently. You want to mix everything without crushing the tomatoes.

5: Let It Rest (Optional but Worth It!)

If you have a few extra minutes, let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together, making the dish even better.

Serving Suggestions

Once your cebolla ensalada recipe is ready, you can serve it as-is or pair it with your favorite dishes. It’s especially delicious with:

• Tacos or burritos: Add a fresh crunch to your fillings.
• Grilled meats: Serve alongside carne asada or chicken.
• Rice and beans: A perfect complement to hearty sides.

Customizing Your cebolla ensalada recipe

One of the best things about Cebolla Ensalada is how easy it is to tweak it to match your taste. Whether you want a spicier kick, a tropical twist, or a creamy addition, this salad can do it all. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Adding a Spicy Kick

If you’re a fan of heat, this salad is the perfect canvas for some extra spice:

1. Jalapeños or Serrano Peppers: Thinly slice 1 small jalapeño or serrano pepper and toss it into the mix. These peppers bring a fresh, crisp heat without overpowering the salad.
2. Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula) adds heat and a little tang. Start with a teaspoon and go from there.
3. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If fresh peppers aren’t your thing, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.

Sweet vs. tangy versions of the Cebolla Ensalada Recipe

For a summery twist, adding fruit can take your cebolla ensalada recipe to the next level:

1. Diced Mango or Pineapple: Toss in ½ cup of diced ripe mango or pineapple. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy onions and vinegar dressing.
2. Citrus Zest: Add the zest of 1 lime or orange for a bright, citrusy note. This works especially well if you’re serving the salad with seafood.
3. Pomegranate Seeds: These add a pop of color and a burst of tart sweetness. A handful is all you need.

Creamy Additions

A little creaminess can balance the sharpness of the onions:

1. Avocado: Dice 1 ripe avocado and gently fold it into the salad right before serving. It adds a rich, buttery texture.
2. Crema or Sour Cream: A dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream on the side makes a great topping for those who love a creamy touch.

Herb Swaps and Extras

Cilantro isn’t for everyone—don’t worry, you’ve got options:

1. Parsley: If cilantro isn’t your jam, substitute it with ½ cup of fresh parsley. It’s a milder, grassy alternative.
2. Mint: Adding a few chopped mint leaves can bring a refreshing twist to the salad.
3. Green Onions: For a slightly different flavor, add ½ cup sliced green onions alongside the red onions.

Adjusting the Flavor Balance

Not every palate is the same, so feel free to tweak the flavors:

• Too Tangy? Add a pinch more sugar or an extra drizzle of olive oil.
• Not Tangy Enough? Squeeze in some fresh lime juice or add another splash of vinegar.
• Too Mild? A sprinkle of extra salt can brighten the flavors, or toss in a little more cilantro.

Serving Suggestions for Cebolla Ensalada

Once you’ve customized your cebolla ensalada recipe, get creative with how you serve it:

1. Taco Bar Addition: Let everyone add their own scoop to tacos, tostadas, or quesadillas.
2. On a Sandwich: Use it as a crunchy topping for burgers, pulled pork, or grilled chicken sandwiches.
3. As a Dip: Serve it with tortilla chips or crispy plantain chips for a fresh take on chips and salsa.

FAQs About the Cebolla Ensalada Recipe

1. Can I use white or yellow onions instead of red onions?
Yes! White onions can work if you want a sharper flavor, while yellow onions will add a slightly sweeter note. Just soak them in water to mellow out the bite.

2. How long can I store Cebolla Ensalada?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it in an airtight container and toss it before serving.

3. Can I make this salad without cilantro?
Absolutely! If cilantro isn’t your thing, parsley or even fresh mint can work as a substitute.

4. Is this salad spicy?
Not by default. However, you can easily add heat with jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a dash of hot sauce.

5. Can I serve this salad warm?
It’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but hey, there are no rules! If you prefer it warm, give it a quick toss in a pan before serving.

6. Is Cebolla Ensalada vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, so it’s a great option for plant-based diets.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a fresh, zesty cebolla ensalada recipe that’s bursting with flavor and ready to brighten up any meal. Whether you’re serving it with tacos, piling it on burgers, or just enjoying it as a snack, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.

The simplicity of this dish is what makes it shine. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels fancy but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s so customizable that you can make it fit your exact tastes.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, and give this recipe a try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!