Cucumber And Raisin Salad
A refreshing and crunchy salad featuring crisp cucumber, sweet golden raisins, and crunchy walnuts, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette with green onions. Perfect as a light side dish or summer appetizer, it's a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeals to those seeking a healthy, flavorful option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a serving bowl.
- Mix well until evenly combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a homemade vinaigrette instead of store-bought salad dressing. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute for walnuts. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic, to change the salad's profile. A touch of herbs like dill or mint can elevate the freshness of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber and Raisin Salad is a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a light lunch. Consider serving it alongside a Fruit Cup With Lemon Creme for a delightful and balanced meal. It also complements dishes like Barbecued Pot Roast, enhancing your table with its crunchy texture and sweet undertones.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, consider gently warming it in the microwave for a few seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the cucumbers mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber And Raisin Salad contains roughly 479 calories, with 7g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If you do prepare it ahead, store the dressing separately and mix it in right before serving.
What can I substitute for golden raisins?
If you can't find golden raisins, regular raisins will work just fine, although they will alter the color and flavor slightly. Dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots can also be excellent alternatives, adding a different sweetness and tartness to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Cucumber and Raisin Salad can be made vegan by ensuring that the salad dressing is free from animal products. Many store-bought dressings fit this requirement, or you can create your own using olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings for a homemade touch.
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).