Cucumber - Green Bean Salad
A crisp, tangy cucumber and green bean salad with a sweet and sour dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the vinegar, sugar, salt, and powdered alum to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the prepared vegetables.
- Refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, use fresh green beans and let them soak in the vinegar mixture longer. You can substitute the sugar with honey or a sugar alternative for a healthier version. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This salad can also be made vegan by ensuring the vinegar and other ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Cucumber - Green Bean Salad as a side dish at summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a hearty sandwich or with a bowl of Hot Italian Dip for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad can last up to a week, and the flavors will continue to develop over time. If you prefer to enjoy it warm, you can gently heat the salad in a pot over low heat, but be cautious not to overcook the vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber - Green Bean Salad contains roughly 150 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2125mg per serving (92% 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 add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes to enhance the flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even pickling and serving.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to absorb the pickling liquid, creating a more flavorful salad. However, if you are short on time, refrigerating for at least 4 hours can still yield a tasty result.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a few days in advance. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
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).