Great Lemon Cucumber Salad

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A refreshing lemon cucumber salad with tangy Jell-O, crunchy vegetables, and creamy toppings, perfect for light summer meals or entertaining guests seeking a cool, flavorful dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg lemon Jell-O
  • 1 c hot water
  • 1/4 c cold water
  • 1/3 c vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • 1 c grated unpeeled cucumber
  • 1/4 c grated onion
  • 1/2 Tbsp salt
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped fine
  • 1/2 c mayonnaise
  • 1/2 c chopped avocado or cottage cheese or radishes

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Pour the mixture into a glass square dish if possible.
  3. Chill until the Jell-O is set and the salad is firm.
  4. Serve on a lettuce leaf with mayonnaise on top.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider substituting the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best taste, and try to remove excess water from the grated cucumber to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. This dish pairs beautifully with Mary Ann'S Salad Dressing for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Great Lemon Cucumber Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for an appealing presentation. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues. You can also enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer before main courses. Consider serving alongside a glass of Lemonade Cooler for a delightful summer meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some firmness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat it, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, but note that this salad is typically served cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Great Lemon Cucumber Salad contains roughly 127 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1231mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).

127 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 3.8g 5% DV
Carbs 21.5g 8% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 5.9g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1231mg 54% DV
Potassium 203mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.9mcg
Vitamin C 15.7mg 17% DV
Calcium 38mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is well-covered to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, enhancing the overall taste. However, avoid adding the mayonnaise until just before serving to keep the texture intact.

What can I substitute for cucumber in this recipe?

If you're not a fan of cucumber, you can try using grated zucchini as a substitute. It has a similar texture and will absorb the flavors of the dressing. Alternatively, diced bell peppers can also add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the salad.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

To make this salad vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative or use a creamy avocado blend. Ensure that the Jell-O used is vegan-friendly, as traditional Jell-O contains gelatin. Check for plant-based options available in stores.

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).

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