Whether he’s stirring something new and delicious into his skillet cornbread, adding a healthy twist to a favorite comfort food recipe, or trying out a new exotic spice, Senior Food Editor Josh Miller loves dreaming up delicious, cookable recipes for PioneerWoman.com. When he hangs up his apron for the day, you can him in his pottery studio, creating fun and functional items for the kitchen and home.
Cucumber Salad
It's a refreshing side dish that beats the summer heat!
Cool, easy, and crunchy—there's no better dish for summer than this cucumber salad! It's one of our favorite BBQ side dishes as a refreshing bite alongside grilled chicken, hot dogs, or pork chops! For folks who can't get enough cucumbers (try Ree Drummond's everything cucumber salmon bites for brunch or her cucumber sandwiches for lunch), this cucumber salad recipe is guaranteed to please! All you have to do is chop the cucumbers and onion and toss with the zippy dressing. It couldn't be easier!
What's in cucumber salad?
There are two main styles of cucumber salad out there: creamy and vinegar-based. This recipe falls into the latter category and features a simple ingredient list of cucumbers, red onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs. It's perfect to make ahead and it's great for summer cookouts, because it can hold up to the heat since there's no mayonnaise or sour cream in it.
What kind of cucumbers are best for cucumber salad?
Seedless (or nearly seedless) cucumbers such as English or Persian varieties are best for this recipe. If you grow cucumbers in the garden, you're welcome to use them but you'll probably want to scoop out the seeds and remove its tough, bitter peel.
Do you to peel cucumbers for cucumber salad?
Cucumber peels are edible, but they don't agree with everyone. There are several ways around this: If using regular cucumbers, peel them partially or all the way; otherwise, seek out summer vegetables like English or Persian cucumbers which have thinner, more tender skin that is easier to chew and digest.
Is cucumber salad healthy?
Of all the potluck side dishes, this cucumber salad is a very healthy option! Because it's vinegar-based instead of mayonnaise based, it has fewer calories. Cucumbers also have a very high water content, which helps to keep you hydrated in the heat.
Can cucumber salad be made ahead?
Yes, this cucumber salad can be made up to a day before it's served. Just be sure to wait until it's time to eat before tossing in the fresh herbs. (Side note: It helps to know how to store cucumbers so they last longer!)
- Yields:
- 4 - 6 serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 10 mins
- Total Time:
- 40 mins
Ingredients
- 2 lb.
cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1
small red onion, thinly sliced
- 5 tbsp.
apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp.
granulated sugar
- 4 tsp.
kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp.
ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp.
fresh dill or chives, chopped
- Nutrition Information
- Per Serving (Serves 6)
- Calories39 Fat0 gSaturated fat0 gTrans fat0 gCholesterol0 mgSodium413 mgCarbohydrates8 gFiber1 gSugar5 gProtein1 gVitamin D0 mcgCalcium29 mgIron1 mgPotassium252 mg
- Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.Powered by
Directions
- Step 1Combine the cucumber, onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Toss gently to combine; let stand for 30 minutes.
- Step 2Stir in dill or chives just before serving.
Tip: This cucumber salad can be made a day ahead. Stir in the herbs just before serving.
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