Mom'S Summer Cucumbers
A refreshing summer cucumber salad with onions, green peppers, and a sweet-sour vinegar dressing, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light side dishes during warm months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the sliced cucumbers, onion, and green peppers in a large bowl.
- Add salt and celery seed, then toss to combine.
- Pour in the vinegar and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of garlic powder to the cucumber mixture. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. You can also use different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a unique twist. This recipe pairs wonderfully with Easy Lemon Dessert for a refreshing summer meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mom's Summer Cucumbers as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. They complement grilled meats beautifully and are a great addition to any summer spread. Consider pairing them with Spiced Sweet Potatoes or serving alongside your favorite sandwiches. Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve over time. If the cucumbers become too soft, consider using them in a salad or sandwich rather than serving them cold on their own. Avoid reheating this dish, as it is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Summer Cucumbers contains roughly 465 calories, with 5g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (190% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2051mg per serving (89% 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 recipe in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made a day ahead of time. The flavors will develop as it chills in the refrigerator. Just make sure to stir it well before serving to redistribute the ingredients and flavors. It’s a great choice for meal prep during busy weeks.
What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe?
For this recipe, English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers work best due to their crisp texture and mild flavor. If you use regular cucumbers, make sure to peel them if the skin is thick or waxy, as this can affect the dish's overall taste and texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other summer vegetables like tomatoes, radishes, or even shredded carrots for added color and crunch. Just be mindful of the moisture content in the additional vegetables, as it can affect the overall balance of flavors in the dish.
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).