Description
A refreshing cucumber salad that’s easy to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large English cucumbers (about 900g), thinly sliced
- 1 medium sweet onion (about 150g), sliced
- 1/41/2 teaspoon white pepper (1.5g)
- 3/41/2 teaspoon salt (4.5g)
- 2 cups white vinegar (480ml)
- 1 cup cold water (240ml)
- 1 cup sugar (200g)
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill (30g)
Instructions
- Cool & Slice Cucumbers: Start by peeling the cucumbers if you prefer a milder flavor and using a mandoline to create even slices. Aim for thin slices as slicing them too thick can result in a crunchy texture that does not absorb flavors well.
- Mix Vinegar & Seasonings: Stir together vinegar, salt, and white pepper until the salt dissolves and the mixture smells tangy. The mixture should be cool to prevent the cucumbers from getting mushy; if it is warm, you may end up with overly soggy slices.
- Combine & Marinate: Gently toss your cucumber slices in the vinegar mixture, ensuring every piece is coated. Marinate for at least two hours in the fridge to let the flavors soak in; refrigeration overnight is beneficial for flavor depth.
- Taste & Adjust Flavors: Before serving, taste the salad to see if it needs extra salt or vinegar. The flavors should be bright and zingy; if it tastes bland, sprinkle in some more salt or a splash of vinegar, but avoid overpowering the cucumbers.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be saved in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Expert Tips: If sogginess occurs, ensure the vinegar mixture is completely cool before adding it to the cucumbers. Use a mandoline for consistent slicing, which helps in flavor absorption. If the cucumbers taste bitter, peeling can help improve their flavor. Consider adding a bit more salt or vinegar after refrigeration for increased flavor.
- Reheating Instructions: This salad is served cold and does not need reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers for a refreshing side. Pair with sandwiches for a crunchy element or offer at potlucks as a cold side dish.
- Recipe Variations: Cherry tomatoes can be added for color and flavor. Feta cheese can be incorporated for a Mediterranean twist. Replace dill with fresh mint for a different herbaceous note.
- Ingredient Notes: Select English cucumbers for their lower seed content and thinner skin. Sweet onion adds mild sweetness; yellow onion can be used for a bolder taste. Use white vinegar for tanginess, but apple cider vinegar is an acceptable substitute if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 28.8g
- Sodium: 224mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33.2g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Protein: 1.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg