Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad
Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad offers crisp, refreshing slices of cucumber infused with a tangy vinegar dressing and a hint of pepper. Perfect for summer picnics or as a cool side dish, its simple flavors highlight the natural freshness of cucumbers, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers, pat dry, and score with tines of a fork.
- Cut cucumbers into transparent, paper-thin slices to measure 4 cups. Place cucumber slices in a deep bowl.
- Sprinkle every few layers with salt, cover cucumbers with a plate, and weight them down with a heavy object (such as a can of fruit). Let stand at room temperature for 2 hours.
- Drain cucumbers thoroughly and press out remaining liquid.
- Stir together vinegar, sugar, and pepper, then pour over cucumber slices and cover.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Drain cucumbers before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, try using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds. If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons. You can also experiment with different vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar, for a unique flavor. Make sure to slice the cucumbers very thinly to achieve that classic old-fashioned texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside a light sandwich. It pairs beautifully with Hasty Pudding or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a hearty soup like Taos Inn Corn Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve over time. However, if you prefer a crisp texture, it’s best to consume it within one day. Do not freeze, as cucumbers do not thaw well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% 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 make this salad a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and refrigerated. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious. Just remember to drain it before serving to avoid excess liquid.
What can I substitute for sugar?
If you want to avoid refined sugar, consider using honey or agave syrup as a natural sweetener. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sweeteners can be sweeter than granulated sugar. For a low-calorie option, try a sugar substitute like Stevia.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. It's a great addition to any vegan recipe collection and can serve as a refreshing side dish for picnics or barbecues.
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).