Aunt Rosie'S Sweet And Sour Cucumber Salad
A refreshing sweet and sour cucumber salad with spiral noodles, perfect for picnics or potlucks, offering a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor combination that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat the cooked and drained spiral noodles with oil while still warm.
- Mix together the sugar, vinegar, Accent, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and parsley.
- Slice cucumbers and onions very thin.
- Combine all ingredients and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- For best flavor, let it sit overnight. Add cucumbers and onions as eaten.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a reduced-fat oil or substituting some of the oil with vegetable broth. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can work well. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. This recipe can easily be adjusted for a vegan diet by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a light soup for a complete meal. For added texture, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. It is also a great complement to dishes like Spinach-Strawberry Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time. If the noodles absorb too much dressing, simply add a bit more vinegar or oil before serving to refresh the salad. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cucumbers and noodles may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Rosie'S Sweet And Sour Cucumber Salad contains roughly 544 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. Just remember to add the cucumbers and onions just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
What can I substitute for spiral noodles?
If you don't have spiral noodles, any short pasta like rotini or shells will work well. For a gluten-free option, try using quinoa, rice noodles, or spiralized vegetables like zucchini. Just be mindful of cooking times and ensure they are tender but not mushy.
How spicy is this salad?
This salad is not spicy; it has a sweet and tangy flavor profile. The garlic powder and pepper add a mild warmth, but if you prefer a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.
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).