Marinated Cucumber Salad
A refreshing and tangy marinated cucumber salad featuring crisp vegetables soaked in a flavorful mixture of Italian dressing, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Perfect as a cool side dish for summer meals or barbecues, offering a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine Italian salad dressing, vinegar, sugar, salad oil, water, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stir in sliced carrots, cucumbers, green pepper rings, and onion rings.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the salad. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the Italian salad dressing with a homemade vinaigrette. You can also use different vegetables such as radishes or bell peppers for variety. Adjust the sugar to taste for a less sweet salad.
Serving Suggestions
This marinated cucumber salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, making it an ideal accompaniment to a summer barbecue. It pairs beautifully with Skillet Dinner or Baked Beef Stew for a delightful meal. Serve it on a bed of greens or alongside crusty bread for a light lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The marinated cucumber salad will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to consume it within 1-2 days. No need to reheat; serve cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Cucumber Salad contains roughly 715 calories, with 7g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (192% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 vegan?
Yes, this marinated cucumber salad can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based Italian dressing. You can also enhance the flavor by adding avocado or chickpeas for extra protein and creaminess.
How long should I marinate the salad?
For the best flavor, it's recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing and develop a delicious taste.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini can add different textures and flavors. Just ensure to adjust the marinating time based on the vegetables you choose.
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).