Cucumber Salad I
A refreshing cucumber salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, a tangy dressing, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for light, cooling summer dishes or side salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, arrange the sliced cucumbers, salting them in layers.
- Cover with a saucer and weigh down with something heavy.
- Let stand for several hours or until juices run out.
- Pour off cucumber juice, which will take most of the salt.
- Combine olive oil, vinegar, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if using).
- Add the dressing to the cucumbers.
- Mix well and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful salad, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or mint. If you don't have olive oil, avocado oil or any mild oil can work as a substitute. To make this dish vegan, ensure the vinegar used is plant-based. If you prefer a crunchy texture, serve immediately after mixing the dressing instead of chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side for a summer barbecue. Serve it alongside dishes like Lime Scallion Chicken for a balanced meal. For a complete lunch, add some quinoa or chickpeas for protein, or enjoy it as part of a light Mediterranean platter with olives and hummus.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunch but should still be flavorful. Avoid freezing, as the texture will suffer. If you need to rehydrate, consider adding a bit of vinegar and olive oil before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad I contains roughly 58 calories, with 0g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead. Just mix the dressing and cucumbers, then chill. However, for best texture, add any herbs or additional toppings right before serving to prevent wilting.
What type of vinegar works best?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are great choices for this salad. They add a nice tang without overpowering the cucumbers. Balsamic vinegar can also be used for a sweeter flavor profile.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Carrots, radishes, or bell peppers can add color and crunch. Just remember to adjust the salting process accordingly, as different vegetables release varying amounts of moisture.
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).