Cold Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad featuring crisp sliced cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and onions, all marinated in a tangy vinegar and sugar mixture. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, it offers a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that appeal to those seeking cool, flavorful dishes on hot days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vinegar, salt, celery seed, and sugar until dissolved.
- Pour the mixture over the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions in a covered dish.
- Place in the refrigerator and wait 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or mint into the salad. If you'd like a sweeter version, you can substitute some of the sugar with Orange Or Lemon Sugar. Ensure the cucumbers are sliced thinly for better absorption of the marinade, and use a mandoline for uniform slices. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Baked In Soy Sauce, making for a delightful summer meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside vegan recipes or as part of a picnic spread. Garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cold Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. However, avoid reheating this dish, as it is best served cold. If needed, give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Cucumber Salad contains roughly 599 calories, with 6g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg per serving (35% 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 use different types of vinegar for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe specifies vinegar, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile. Each type will impart its unique taste, so feel free to adjust based on your preference. Just keep in mind that the acidity should remain balanced to maintain the salad's refreshing quality.
How long can I let the salad marinate?
For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 24 hours before serving. This gives the cucumbers and peppers time to absorb the marinade. However, if you're short on time, even a few hours can enhance the taste. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more pronounced the flavors will become.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to customize your Cold Cucumber Salad by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or carrots for added crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the vegetable sizes similar to ensure even marination. This versatility allows you to create a salad that suits your taste and incorporates seasonal produce.
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).