Crisp Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumber salad offers refreshing, tangy flavors with vinegar, dill, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect as a cool side dish for summer gatherings or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel cucumbers, leaving some skin for color.
- Slice cucumbers thin.
- In a deep bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, pepper, and dill and mix well.
- Add cucumber slices and cover.
- Refrigerate for 6 hours.
- Drain before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding thinly sliced red onion or bell peppers for extra crunch. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, you can substitute honey or a sugar alternative in place of granulated sugar. Ensure to mix the dressing thoroughly to dissolve the sugar completely for a balanced flavor. This salad can also be made ahead of time, making it a great side for meals like Dad'S Apricot Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crisp cucumber salad chilled as a side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs well with dishes like Cornbread Salad(Christmas Salad) or can be enjoyed on its own as a light appetizer. For added protein, consider topping it with feta cheese or serving alongside roasted chickpeas for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. However, it's best to drain excess liquid before serving to maintain its crispness. Avoid freezing, as cucumbers do not thaw well and lose their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisp Cucumber Salad contains roughly 152 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1776mg per serving (77% 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 salad?
Yes, you can use different types of cucumbers, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. They offer a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in this salad. Just ensure they are firm and fresh for the best results.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add a spicy kick, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes into the dressing. You can also experiment with a splash of hot sauce to infuse some heat while maintaining the original flavor of the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This crisp cucumber salad is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Feel free to customize it further with your favorite vegetables or add-ins like avocado or cherry tomatoes for a more filling option.
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).