in

Marinated Cucumber Salad

Refreshing Delight: Marinated Cucumber Salad

healty meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the prepared dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss gently to combine.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

healty meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

healty meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

Homemade Strawberry Sauce