Embrace the flavors of summer with our delectable Marinated Cucumber Salad recipe. Bursting with freshness and vibrancy, this dish is a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Crisp cucumber slices and tangy onions are marinated in a sweet and savory dressing, creating a refreshing side dish that’s both light and satisfying. Join us as we explore the simplicity and deliciousness of Marinated Cucumber Salad – a culinary delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cool water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Prepare Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, granulated sugar, water, salt, pepper, and celery seed (if using) until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Slice Cucumbers and Onions: Thinly slice the English cucumbers and red onion using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the prepared dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss gently to combine.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the marinade.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs or additional black pepper if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cucumber Varieties: While English cucumbers are preferred for their mild flavor and thin skin, you can also use regular cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them and removing the seeds for a smoother texture.
- Onion Options: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the thinly sliced red onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad. This helps to reduce the sharpness of the onion.
- Additional Ingredients: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch and color.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content.
- Adjust the sweetness to taste by gradually adding the sweetener until desired sweetness is achieved.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar-free sweetener to lower the carb content while still maintaining the sweetness of the dressing.
- Increase the proportion of cucumbers and onions to decrease the overall carb count per serving.
In conclusion, Marinated Cucumber Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. With its crisp cucumbers, tangy onions, and sweet-and-savory dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply craving a refreshing salad, this recipe is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, mix up a batch of dressing, and prepare to enjoy the refreshing goodness of Marinated Cucumber Salad – a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, Marinated Cucumber Salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers? A: Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but be sure to peel them and remove the seeds for a smoother texture. English cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and mild flavor.
Q: Is this salad suitable for vegetarians and vegans? A: Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly. To make it vegan, simply omit the honey or replace it with a vegan sweetener such as maple syrup or agave nectar.
