Cream Cucumbers
Cream cucumbers offer a refreshing, tangy side with crisp cucumbers and onions blended with sour cream and vinegar, perfect for light summer meals or as a cooling side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take cucumbers, onion, and salt.
- Let drain all day.
- Squeeze out the excess juice from the mixture.
- When ready to serve, mix in 1 tablespoon sour cream, 1 or more teaspoons of vinegar, and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh dill or parsley to the cucumbers before serving. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. When selecting cucumbers, opt for firm, unwaxed varieties for the best flavor. To enhance the dish, you can also incorporate a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a refreshing side for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Bean Sprout Salad for a light summer meal. Serve chilled and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor. It can also be served alongside a creamy dip like Jerry's Sauce for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cream Cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid adding sour cream and vinegar until just before serving. If you need to rehydrate them, a light sprinkle of salt can help restore some moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cucumbers contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1548mg per serving (67% 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 Cream Cucumbers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumbers and onion with salt in advance and let them drain. Just add the sour cream, vinegar, and pepper right before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
What type of cucumbers should I use?
For this recipe, pick firm, unwaxed cucumbers like English or Persian cucumbers, as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers can work, but they may require peeling to improve texture.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or cashew cream to create a vegan version of Cream Cucumbers. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and enjoy a refreshing vegan side 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).