Cucumber Salad Dressing
A refreshing cucumber salad dressing featuring crisp cucumbers, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of sweetness from sugar. Its vibrant flavors are complemented by onion and seasonings, making it perfect for light summer dishes or as a cool accompaniment to grilled foods. Ideal for those seeking a zesty, cool salad enhancer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind cucumbers and onions, then drain well.
- Add sugar, lemon juice, MSG, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, green food coloring, and mayonnaise.
- Stir until smooth and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar to 1/2 cup if desired. For a unique twist, add a sprinkle of dill or mint for added flavor. This dressing is versatile and can be used in various salads, including the popular Cranberry Apple Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber salad dressing over mixed greens or as a dip for fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. For an exciting combination, try it alongside the Heavenly Gold Salad or with a platter of crudités. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve as it sits. If the dressing separates, simply stir or shake well before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh but feel free to make it a day ahead for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad Dressing contains roughly 137 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dressing vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dressing vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative or by using silken tofu blended until smooth. This will maintain the creamy texture while making it suitable for vegan diets.
How can I make this dressing spicier?
To add a spicy kick to the dressing, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in finely chopped jalapeños or other spicy peppers to suit your taste. Just be sure to balance the heat with a bit more sugar if necessary.
What can I use if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing soy sauce with a splash of vinegar and a touch of sugar. Alternatively, you could use a combination of balsamic vinegar and a bit of tamari for a similar depth of flavor without the anchovies.
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).