Wilted Cucumbers
Wilted Cucumbers offer a tangy, lightly pickled flavor with a hint of white pepper, perfect as a refreshing side or salad component. The dish's crisp texture and balanced acidity make it suitable for warm weather gatherings or as a cool accompaniment to grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel cucumbers, leaving some green on.
- Score lengthwise with tines of a fork.
- Slice cucumbers as thinly as possible and sprinkle with salt.
- Let stand at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
- Drain thoroughly, pressing out as much liquid as possible.
- In a saucepan, combine cider vinegar, water, sugar, and white pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then pour over the drained cucumbers.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or mint to the cucumbers before marinating. If you're looking for an alternative to cider vinegar, rice vinegar works well too. Adjust the sugar to your taste; replace it with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness level. Be sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for better absorption of the pickling liquid.
Serving Suggestions
These wilted cucumbers make a refreshing side dish, especially alongside grilled meats like shish kabobs or Mediterranean recipes. They pair nicely with a light salad or as a topping for sandwiches. Try serving them with Honeyed Grapes for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. They can also be a great addition to a summer picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time. If you want to serve them warm, you can briefly heat them in a pan, but it's best enjoyed cold or at room temperature for optimal texture and taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wilted Cucumbers contains roughly 368 calories, with 10g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and iron (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 25g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different varieties may have varying levels of moisture, which can affect the final texture. If using a thicker-skinned variety, you might want to peel them more thoroughly.
How long can I let the cucumbers sit in the vinegar mixture?
It's best to let the cucumbers marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but they can sit for up to a few hours depending on your taste preference. Just be cautious not to leave them too long, as they can become overly soft.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prep.
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).