Mom'S Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, creamy sour cream, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare cucumbers and scoop out seeds.
- Slice cucumbers very thinly, using a grater if preferred.
- Drain cucumbers in a colander for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Combine drained cucumbers with chopped onion, sour cream, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly, then add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding a handful of diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. If sour cream isn't available, Greek yogurt serves as a great substitute, lending a similar tanginess. Additionally, using a mixture of white and red onions can enhance the flavor and add color. Make sure to salt the cucumbers well to draw out excess moisture, ensuring a crisp salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber salad as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside classic American recipes like Oven Rich Potatoes for a complete meal. It pairs well with barbecue dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness, avoid mixing in the dressing until ready to serve. If the salad becomes watery, simply drain off the excess liquid before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Cucumber Salad contains roughly 110 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 629mg per serving (27% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just be sure to keep the cucumbers drained and mix the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when served.
Is there a vegan option for this cucumber salad?
Absolutely! You can replace sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives such as cashew cream or vegan sour cream. This way, you can enjoy a creamy texture without using dairy, making it suitable for vegetarian recipes and those following a vegan diet.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more substantial, consider adding diced avocado or cooked quinoa. These ingredients not only enhance the texture but also provide healthy fats and protein, transforming the salad into a more satisfying meal option.
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).