Hungarian Cucumber Salad
A refreshing Hungarian cucumber salad with thinly sliced cucumbers and onions, flavored with vinegar, paprika, and salt, perfect as a cool side dish or summer appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers very thin.
- Slice onion very thin.
- Put both in a bowl and salt heavily.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Combine white vinegar, water, and sugar to make the dressing.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Squeeze the cucumbers and onion with your hand to remove all the water.
- Mix the drained vegetables with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, try using Persian cucumbers, which are thinner-skinned and seedless. If you're looking to reduce sodium, substitute the salt with a low-sodium alternative. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can also enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Hungarian Cucumber Salad as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside a light sandwich. It pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Wieners and is a great accompaniment to any barbecue. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a protein like grilled chicken or fish, and a side of rice or quinoa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid reheating, as the salad is best served cold and fresh. If excess liquid forms, simply drain it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Cucumber Salad contains roughly 8 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% 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 use different types of vinegar for the dressing?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, so adjust the amount of sugar accordingly to balance the acidity.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in finely chopped fresh chili peppers, such as jalapeños or serranos, into the salad. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes in the dressing for a more uniform spice throughout the dish.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors develop beautifully overnight. However, it's best to mix the dressing with the cucumbers and onions just before serving to keep them crisp.
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).