Beth'S Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad featuring tangy rice wine vinegar, crisp vegetables, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for light meals or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve sugar in water.
- Add rice wine vinegar, salt, red onion, red pepper, shallot, and sliced cucumbers to the mixture.
- Cover with plastic wrap in a glass bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours.
- Drain liquid and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and thicker skin. You can substitute the rice wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet salad. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber salad as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, making it a perfect complement to dishes like Beer Marinade chicken. You can also pair it with rice dishes or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. However, for optimal crunch, it’s best to consume it fresh. Do not freeze, as the cucumbers will lose their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beth'S Cucumber Salad contains roughly 112 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1756mg per serving (76% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just remember to drain the liquid before serving for the best texture. The flavors will intensify if allowed to marinate longer in the refrigerator. However, avoid making it too far in advance to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
What can I substitute for shallots?
If you don't have shallots on hand, you can use finely chopped red onions or a mix of onion and garlic for a similar flavor profile. Both will add a nice bite to the salad, though shallots are milder and sweeter. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this cucumber salad is naturally vegan, making it a great choice for anyone following a plant-based diet. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. You can explore other vegan recipes to complement this salad for a complete meal, such as grilled vegetable skewers or quinoa bowls.
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).