Crispy Cucumber Salad
Crispy cucumber salad offers a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers, green peppers, and onions, dressed with a sweet and tangy vinegar-sugar glaze, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cucumbers, green peppers, onions, salt, and ice in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture set for 2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar and vinegar.
- Heat the vinegar and sugar mixture, but do not boil. Cool before pouring over the vegetable mixture.
- Refrigerate and let set overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, choose smaller cucumbers, as they tend to have fewer seeds and a firmer bite. You can substitute green peppers with bell peppers for a sweeter taste or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced veggies to speed up prep. This salad pairs excellently with a refreshing Tea And Fruit Cooler.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy cucumber salad as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats or alongside a light fish dish. It also works well as a topping for tacos or burgers. For a complete meal, pair it with a protein-rich dish like grilled chicken or tofu. This salad is a delightful addition to a summer picnic, alongside other dishes like Fruit Popsicles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing, as the cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy the salad cold and fresh, but if needed, let it chill in the fridge for a short while before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Cucumber Salad contains roughly 655 calories, with 7g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (223% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2054mg per serving (89% 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 salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to develop fully. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
What can I use instead of sugar?
If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sweeteners can be sweeter than regular sugar. Just ensure any substitute is well mixed with the vinegar before pouring over the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other crunchy vegetables like radishes, carrots, or even celery for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that any additional veggies should be sliced thinly to ensure they mix well with the cucumbers and absorb the dressing.
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).