Refreshing cucumber salad with basil and peanut oil
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Looking for a quick, easy, and surprisingly tasty dinner? I invite you to discover this cucumber salad, perfect for warm evenings or as a side dish for any main course. It’s a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, combining crunchy textures and fresh aromas.
Ingredients you need:
- 3 large, fresh cucumbers
- 1 packet of salad seasoning (choose a variety you like)
- 2 tablespoons of peanut oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
The story behind the recipe
Cucumber salads have been prepared throughout history in various cultures, appreciated for their freshness and crunchiness. Cucumbers are versatile vegetables that can be used in salads, sandwiches, or even pickled. This simple recipe pays tribute to these vegetables, enhancing their flavor with peanut oil, which adds a rich note of flavor.
Ingredient details
- Cucumbers: Choose young cucumbers with thin skin and no blemishes. Cucumbers are rich in water (about 95%) and low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet.
- Salad seasoning: These can range from simple mixes of salt and pepper to complex combinations with herbs and spices. Experiment with different types to find the perfect blend for you.
- Peanut oil: This has a subtle yet distinctive flavor that perfectly complements the fresh taste of cucumbers. It's a good source of healthy fats, but make sure you are not allergic to peanuts.
- Dried basil: This aromatic herb adds a Mediterranean touch to your salad. Dried basil has a concentrated flavor, so be careful not to use too much.
Preparing the salad step by step
1. Wash and peel the cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. After peeling them, use a grater to slice them very thinly. If you want an even finer texture, you can use a sharp knife.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cucumber slices. Sprinkle the packet of salad seasoning and the dried basil over them. Use a spatula or a large spoon to carefully mix everything, ensuring that each piece of cucumber is well coated with the seasonings.
3. Add the oil: Pour the 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over the salad mixture. Mix again so that the oil distributes evenly. This will add not only flavor but also a silky texture to your salad.
4. Serve: The salad is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it alongside slices of toasted bread, which will add a crunchy and savory contrast. If desired, you can add some avocado slices or feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.
Serving suggestions and variations
- Additions: You can experiment with different ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, olives, or goat cheese to create a personalized salad.
- Drinks: This salad pairs excellently with a glass of mineral water with lemon or a chilled herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the freshness of the dish.
- Variations: If you want to add a bit of spice, you can include chili flakes or a few drops of Sriracha sauce. You can also replace peanut oil with olive oil for a more Mediterranean flavor.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use cucumbers with skin? Yes, if you prefer a more intense flavor and a sturdier texture, you can leave the skin on. Just make sure to wash them well before using.
2. Is this salad healthy? Absolutely! Cucumbers are very filling, low in calories, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Adding peanut oil provides healthy fats, and basil is rich in antioxidants.
3. How long does the salad last in the fridge? The salad is best served immediately after preparation, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. The oil may cause the cucumber slices to become soft, so it’s best to consume it fresh.
4. Can I make it vegan? The recipe is already vegan, but if you want to add a protein source, you can try tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Nutritional information (per serving)
Calories: 90
Fats: 7g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Proteins: 1g
This cucumber salad is not only simple but also a true delight that you can prepare in just a few minutes. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a fresh and healthy dinner! Enjoy your meal!
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Looking for a quick, easy, and surprisingly tasty dinner? I invite you to discover this cucumber salad, perfect for warm evenings or as a side dish for any main course. It’s a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, combining crunchy textures and fresh aromas.
Ingredients you need:
- 3 large, fresh cucumbers
- 1 packet of salad seasoning (choose a variety you like)
- 2 tablespoons of peanut oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
The story behind the recipe
Cucumber salads have been prepared throughout history in various cultures, appreciated for their freshness and crunchiness. Cucumbers are versatile vegetables that can be used in salads, sandwiches, or even pickled. This simple recipe pays tribute to these vegetables, enhancing their flavor with peanut oil, which adds a rich note of flavor.
Ingredient details
- Cucumbers: Choose young cucumbers with thin skin and no blemishes. Cucumbers are rich in water (about 95%) and low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet.
- Salad seasoning: These can range from simple mixes of salt and pepper to complex combinations with herbs and spices. Experiment with different types to find the perfect blend for you.
- Peanut oil: This has a subtle yet distinctive flavor that perfectly complements the fresh taste of cucumbers. It's a good source of healthy fats, but make sure you are not allergic to peanuts.
- Dried basil: This aromatic herb adds a Mediterranean touch to your salad. Dried basil has a concentrated flavor, so be careful not to use too much.
Preparing the salad step by step
1. Wash and peel the cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold running water. After peeling them, use a grater to slice them very thinly. If you want an even finer texture, you can use a sharp knife.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cucumber slices. Sprinkle the packet of salad seasoning and the dried basil over them. Use a spatula or a large spoon to carefully mix everything, ensuring that each piece of cucumber is well coated with the seasonings.
3. Add the oil: Pour the 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over the salad mixture. Mix again so that the oil distributes evenly. This will add not only flavor but also a silky texture to your salad.
4. Serve: The salad is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it alongside slices of toasted bread, which will add a crunchy and savory contrast. If desired, you can add some avocado slices or feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.
Serving suggestions and variations
- Additions: You can experiment with different ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, olives, or goat cheese to create a personalized salad.
- Drinks: This salad pairs excellently with a glass of mineral water with lemon or a chilled herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the freshness of the dish.
- Variations: If you want to add a bit of spice, you can include chili flakes or a few drops of Sriracha sauce. You can also replace peanut oil with olive oil for a more Mediterranean flavor.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use cucumbers with skin? Yes, if you prefer a more intense flavor and a sturdier texture, you can leave the skin on. Just make sure to wash them well before using.
2. Is this salad healthy? Absolutely! Cucumbers are very filling, low in calories, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Adding peanut oil provides healthy fats, and basil is rich in antioxidants.
3. How long does the salad last in the fridge? The salad is best served immediately after preparation, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. The oil may cause the cucumber slices to become soft, so it’s best to consume it fresh.
4. Can I make it vegan? The recipe is already vegan, but if you want to add a protein source, you can try tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Nutritional information (per serving)
Calories: 90
Fats: 7g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Proteins: 1g
This cucumber salad is not only simple but also a true delight that you can prepare in just a few minutes. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a fresh and healthy dinner! Enjoy your meal!