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MARINATED CUCUMBER SALAD

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Easy Marinated Cucumber Salad Recipe

Introduction

Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your BBQs, picnics, and potlucks? This easy Marinated Cucumber Salad is your answer! It’s light, refreshing, and pairs wonderfully with hot dogs, burgers, grilled chicken, or grilled pork steaks. The tangy marinade brings out the fresh flavors of the cucumbers and red onions, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process to make this delightful salad, complete with tips and FAQs to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

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 (see notes)
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large, wide-mouthed mason jar, add the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, water, salt, black pepper, and celery seed (if using). Secure the lid and shake well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Slice the Cucumbers and Onion: Thinly slice the English cucumbers and red onion. For uniform slices, use a mandoline slicer.

Step 3: Marinate the Vegetables

  1. Add to Jar: Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the mason jar with the marinade. Ensure the vegetables are fully submerged in the marinade.
  2. Refrigerate: Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Cucumber Selection: Use English cucumbers for their tender skins that do not require peeling. If you opt for regular cucumbers, peel them to remove the thicker skins for a better texture.
  • Best Consumption Time: This cucumber salad is best eaten within the first 24 hours while the cucumbers and onions retain their crispness.
  • Uniform Slicing: For even slices, which ensure uniform marination, a mandoline slicer is highly recommended.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 165kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Sodium: 299mg
  • Potassium: 275mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Vitamin A: 110IU
  • Vitamin C: 6mg
  • Calcium: 35mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Tips for the Perfect Marinated Cucumber Salad

Tip 1: Choose the Right Cucumbers

English cucumbers are preferred for this recipe due to their thin skins and fewer seeds. If using standard cucumbers, peeling them can help achieve a better texture and more pleasant eating experience.

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Tip 2: Slice Evenly

Uniform slices are crucial for even marination. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this with minimal effort, ensuring every piece absorbs the marinade equally.

Tip 3: Freshness Matters

For the best flavor and texture, enjoy the salad within 24 hours of preparation. The cucumbers and onions will still be crisp, and the flavors will be perfectly balanced.

Tip 4: Customize the Flavor

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar. For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. However, it’s best to peel them to remove the thicker skins and create a more pleasant texture.

How long should I marinate the cucumbers?

Marinate the cucumbers for at least one hour to let the flavors meld. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate them overnight.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for extra color and crunch.

How long does the marinated cucumber salad last?

This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours. However, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will become softer the longer they marinate.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

While the salad itself is low in carbohydrates, the sugar in the marinade adds carbs. You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to make it more suitable for a low-carb diet.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar, rice vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of sugar accordingly to balance the acidity.

Conclusion

This easy Marinated Cucumber Salad is a versatile and refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings. With its tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. Follow the tips and FAQs provided to customize the salad to your liking and ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite grilled meats and savor the taste of summer!

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