"Miss Jessie'S" Vidalia Onions And Cucumbers
Crisp and refreshing Vidalia onions and cucumbers are layered with a tangy, sweet, and creamy dressing, making this a perfect side dish for summer gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer cucumbers and onions in a large bowl, salting each layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for 6 hours.
- Drain the cucumbers and onions after refrigeration.
- In a separate bowl, blend sugar and sour cream until smooth.
- Add vinegar and lemon juice to the sour cream mixture, then stir in black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and onions, mix well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. If Vidalia onions are unavailable, any sweet onion will work well. Letting the cucumbers and onions sit in salt helps draw out excess moisture, enhancing the flavor. Mixing in some fresh dill can add an extra layer of flavor, making this dish reminiscent of traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a refreshing side for summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and can complement dishes like a Bologna Stack. For a complete meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time. To enjoy leftovers, serve them cold straight from the fridge. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Miss Jessie'S" Vidalia Onions And Cucumbers contains roughly 375 calories, with 13g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 dish in advance?
Yes, this dish can be prepared a day ahead. Just ensure you drain the cucumbers and onions well after the refrigeration process. The flavors will develop more over time, making it an ideal make-ahead option for gatherings.
What can I use if I don't have vinegar?
If vinegar isn't available, you can substitute with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, which will provide a similar tangy flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste, as some alternatives may be more potent than others.
Are there any variations I can try?
Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the dish further. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes.
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).