Cooked Cucumbers
Cooked cucumbers offer a tender, mildly flavored side dish with a hint of salt and butter, ideal for those seeking a light, comforting vegetable option. Perfect for family dinners or as a unique addition to a vegetable platter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut cucumbers into thick slices or quarters.
- Heat water and salt to boiling; add cucumbers.
- Cover pan tightly to prevent escape of steam and heat again to boiling.
- Reduce heat at once and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Drain the cooked cucumbers.
- To serve, season with pepper and butter.
- Optional: Top with Hollandaise Sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm cucumbers that are free of blemishes. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds. You can adjust the salt according to your taste, or substitute with a low-sodium alternative. For a twist, add herbs like dill or basil for added flavor. If you're experimenting with vegan recipes, use a plant-based butter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cooked cucumbers as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish for a light, healthy meal. They pair beautifully with Lemon Cranberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent touch, top with Hollandaise Sauce. These cucumbers also make a great addition to a summer picnic spread or barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the cucumbers in a pan over low heat to retain their texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them mushy. If you prefer, enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cooked Cucumbers contains roughly 9 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg 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 use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of cucumbers, but English cucumbers tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds. If using pickling cucumbers, you may need to adjust the salt to balance their stronger flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Another option is to serve the cucumbers with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick.
What are some good sides to serve with cooked cucumbers?
Cooked cucumbers pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. They also complement starchy sides like rice or potatoes, making for a well-rounded meal.
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).