Grandma B’s Cucumber Salad is a cherished family recipe that has been passed down through generations. This simple yet flavorful salad captures the essence of summer with its crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar dressing, and hints of sweetness. Whether served as a refreshing side dish at a barbecue or enjoyed as a light lunch on a hot day, this cucumber salad is sure to evoke fond memories and satisfy your taste buds. Join us as we delve into the heartwarming story behind this beloved recipe and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 small onion, sliced thin (Vidalia, sweet onion, or white)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Fresh tomatoes (cherry, plum, or garden-fresh)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried dill or 3 teaspoons fresh dill weed
- English cucumbers
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions:
- Start by peeling the cucumbers and slicing them thinly. Slice the onion into thin rings or strips. Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Vinegar Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour the vinegar dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure that the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If desired, toss in some fresh tomatoes for added color and flavor. You can also sprinkle dried dill or fresh dill weed over the salad for a hint of herbaceous goodness.
- Chill and Marinate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the cucumber salad for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is essential for achieving the best taste and texture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, give the cucumber salad a final stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired. Serve as a refreshing side dish or enjoy it on its own as a light and healthy snack.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Crunchy Additions: Enhance the texture of the salad by adding sliced radishes, bell peppers, or celery for extra crunch.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, parsley, or mint to add a unique flavor profile to the salad.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamy variation, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the vinegar dressing before tossing with the cucumbers and onions.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as stevia or erythritol to reduce the carb content.
- Use less sweetener if you prefer a tangier flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version instructions above, adjusting the sweetener to suit your taste preferences.
- Enjoy this low-carb cucumber salad as a delicious and refreshing option for your low-carb lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, this cucumber salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
2. Can I use other types of vinegar? While apple cider vinegar is traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of vinegar such as white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for different flavor variations.
3. Can I customize the sweetness of the dressing? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sugar or sweetener used in the dressing to suit your taste preferences. Start with less sugar and add more gradually until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
4. Can I add garlic or other spices to the dressing? Yes, feel free to customize the dressing by adding minced garlic, red pepper flakes, or your favorite spices for an extra kick of flavor.
Grandma B’s Cucumber Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a cherished tradition that brings joy to every gathering. With its fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and customizable options, this salad is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones at a summer picnic or enjoying it as a light and healthy snack, Grandma B’s Cucumber Salad is sure to leave a lasting impression. So gather your ingredients, embrace the nostalgia, and savor the delicious simplicity of this beloved family favorite!
