Cool Cucumbers
Cool Cucumbers offers a refreshing, creamy salad with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for hot days and suitable for picnics, barbecues, or light side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and onion; place in a large bowl.
- Mix mayonnaise, sugar, salt, pepper, and vinegar until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onion.
- Cover and chill overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For maximum flavor, let the cucumbers and onions sit in the dressing for at least a few hours before serving. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a summer picnic spread, alongside dishes like House Slaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing salad as a side dish at barbecues or picnics. It complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully and can also be a great addition to a larger spread with dishes like Dutch Bean Salad. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Oven-Fried Potatoes for a satisfying yet light summer dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cool Cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so give them a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing this dish, as the cucumbers will become mushy when thawed. Enjoy chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cool Cucumbers contains roughly 147 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1789mg per serving (78% 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 recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. There are many delicious vegan mayo options available that will work just as well. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the sugar amount according to your preference. Alternatively, you could add a touch of honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile, but keep in mind that this will alter the vegan status of the recipe. Taste the dressing before adding it to the cucumbers and onion.
Is it necessary to chill the salad overnight?
While it's not strictly necessary, chilling the salad overnight allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. If you're short on time, aim for at least 2-3 hours in the fridge before serving. This will still provide a flavorful and refreshing dish.
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).