Aunt Mattie'S Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a creamy mayonnaise dressing, perfect for hot days or as a light side dish suited for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Cover and let stand in the refrigerator until fully chilled.
- Serve over lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use vegan mayonnaise to make it suitable for vegan recipes. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch, although they may alter the texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues. Serve it over a bed of lettuce for added texture and freshness. For a complete meal, consider adding some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers, it's best not to dress the salad until you're ready to serve. If you find the salad has become too watery, simply drain the excess liquid before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mattie'S Cucumber Salad contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1811mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until serving to ensure freshness. If making it a day ahead, wait to add the mayonnaise until just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise, providing creaminess while adding protein. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan mayonnaise or even a tahini-based dressing for a unique flavor.
How do I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, you can add ingredients like diced avocado, chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa. These additions not only enhance the texture but also increase the nutritional value, making it a more substantial dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).