Cool Cucumber Mousse
A refreshing and creamy cucumber mousse with subtle vinegar and onion flavors, perfect as an elegant appetizer or light summer dish for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften gelatin in combined water and vinegar; stir over low heat until dissolved.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool.
- Gradually add the gelatin mixture to mayonnaise, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Chill until partially set.
- Fold in drained shredded cucumber, whipped cream, and grated onion.
- Pour into an oiled 5-cup mold.
- Chill until the mousse is firm.
- Unmold the mousse and garnish with cucumbers and radishes, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using flavored vinegar such as apple cider or red wine vinegar instead of regular vinegar. If you're short on time, you can substitute the heavy cream with a store-bought whipped topping for a lighter version. For added texture, try mixing in some finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley, which complement cucumber well. This mousse is perfect for a summer gathering, serving as a refreshing appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve the mousse on a bed of lettuce or alongside sliced radishes and cucumbers for a pretty contrast. It pairs beautifully with Zucchini Stuffed Chicken Quarters for a light meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread or crackers to scoop it up for a delightful appetizer at your next gathering or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The mousse can lose its texture over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to serve it later, make sure to keep it chilled until ready to serve. Do not freeze the mousse, as it may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cool Cucumber Mousse contains roughly 486 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 mousse ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mousse a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, making for a more flavorful dish when served.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for gelatin?
Absolutely! You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount to use, as it may vary from traditional gelatin. This will provide a similar texture while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if the mousse doesn’t set properly?
If your mousse doesn't set, it might be due to insufficient cooling of the gelatin mixture or not enough gelatin used. You can reheat the mixture gently and add an additional envelope of gelatin dissolved in water. Then, remix and let it chill again until firm.
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).