Every summer, as a gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming jasmine into Mama Lou’s kitchen, the clatter of preparing a crisp cucumber salad would echo through the air. Sitting at the old wooden table, I watched her nimble fingers dance across the cutting board, transforming humble cucumbers into a refreshing masterpiece. This cucumber salad wasn’t just a dish; it was an heirloom of our family, a culinary love letter passed down through generations. Today, I invite you to join me on this nostalgic journey, as we explore a cucumber salad that is as much about family ties as it is about simple, fresh ingredients.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
This cucumber salad is a celebration of simplicity, a reminder that sometimes the best things in life are uncomplicated. You’ll adore its refreshing crunch and the way it bursts with vibrant flavors, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. This salad is more than just food; it’s a connection to cherished memories with Mama Lou and laughter-filled afternoons with my sister, Ouma. The crispness of the cucumbers, combined with the tangy vinaigrette, creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and cherish the moments spent with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cucumber Salad
Gather these simple ingredients to create your own version of our beloved cucumber salad, and feel free to make it your own with substitutions.
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Substitution Suggestions:
- For a sweeter taste, substitute the rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
- If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill can be used, but reduce the quantity to 2 teaspoons.
- Swap red onion with shallots for a milder flavor.
Nutrition Facts
This cucumber salad is not only delicious but also light and nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 80 per serving
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
Refreshing Crunch: Elevate Your Summer with Cucumber Salad
Learn how to make delicious Cucumber Salad. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your own version of our beloved cucumber salad, and feel free to make it your own with substitutions.
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Substitution Suggestions:
- For a sweeter taste, substitute the rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
- If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill can be used, but reduce the quantity to 2 teaspoons.
- Swap red onion with shallots for a milder flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring a touch of my family’s tradition to your table.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion. Toss them gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the cucumber and onion mixture, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle the fresh dill over the salad and mix again to distribute the herbs throughout.
- For an added layer of flavor, incorporate red pepper flakes if desired.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Mama Lou always said, “Patience makes the taste sing.”
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Cucumber Salad
Follow these simple steps to bring a touch of my family’s tradition to your table.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion. Toss them gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the cucumber and onion mixture, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle the fresh dill over the salad and mix again to distribute the herbs throughout.
- For an added layer of flavor, incorporate red pepper flakes if desired.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Mama Lou always said, “Patience makes the taste sing.”
Tips for Making the Best Cucumber Salad
Through years of watching Mama Lou, I’ve gathered some tips for making the perfect cucumber salad. First, always use the freshest cucumbers you can find for maximum crunch. Peeling is optional; leaving the skin can add flavor and texture. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. Lastly, remember that this salad is versatile—don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This cucumber salad shines as a side dish, complementing a variety of main courses. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as lemon-herb chicken or a juicy steak. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a quiche or a frittata. On warm summer evenings, it’s the perfect companion to a picnic spread or a backyard barbecue. Mama Lou often paired it with freshly baked bread, allowing us to soak up every last drop of the tangy vinaigrette.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Should you have leftovers, store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. However, the cucumbers may lose some of their crunch over time. To refresh the salad, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or a dash of vinegar just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating, which adds to its convenience and charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Cucumber Salad?
The main ingredients for Cucumber Salad include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Cucumber Salad?
The total time to make Cucumber Salad includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Cucumber Salad ahead of time?
Yes, Cucumber Salad can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Cucumber Salad?
Cucumber Salad pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Cucumber Salad suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Cucumber Salad may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating this cucumber salad is like capturing a slice of my family’s history in a bowl. It’s a dish that brings me back to those sunny afternoons with Mama Lou and Ouma, where love was as abundant as the ingredients we used. I hope this recipe finds a place in your heart and home, bringing joy and connection to your table. As you savor each bite, may it remind you of the simple pleasures of life and the timeless bond of family.
“Cooking is love made visible.” – Mama Lou
