Cucumber salad

Marinated Cucumbers: Fresh Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream

When it comes to quick and healthy dishes, cucumber salad with sour cream is an excellent choice. This salad is not only easy to make but also an explosion of fresh flavors, perfect for warm days or as a side dish alongside various main courses. The origins of this salad are lost in history, but it has always been appreciated as a refreshing accompaniment, bringing a touch of freshness to any meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 2-3 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 greenhouse cucumber (approximately 300 g)
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream (preferably high-fat for a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of fresh dill (or dried, but fresh is recommended for a more vibrant taste)
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped green onion
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the cucumber: Wash the cucumber well under cold running water. If you prefer, you can peel it, but the skin contains many nutrients, so I recommend leaving it on. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, about 5 mm thick. These rounds will contribute to a crunchy and pleasant texture.

2. Salting the cucumbers: Place the cucumber rounds in a strainer and sprinkle some salt over them. Cover with a lid or a plate to help draw out the water. Let sit for 20 minutes. This step is essential as the salt will help improve the texture and flavor.

3. Preparing the dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, vinegar, fresh dill, and green onion. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth dressing. You can adjust the amount of vinegar to your liking. If you enjoy stronger flavors, feel free to add an extra teaspoon!

4. Mixing the ingredients: After the cucumbers have sat in salt, rinse them well under cold water to remove excess salt. Let them drain well. Add the cucumber rounds to the bowl with the sour cream dressing and gently mix to evenly coat each piece.

5. Seasoning: Taste the salad and add salt and pepper to your preference. You can experiment with different spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, to give it a spicy note.

6. Chilling: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and become more intense. It’s an important step to achieve a truly memorable salad taste.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the cucumber: Opt for greenhouse cucumbers, which are crunchier and sweeter. Check that they are firm and free of blemishes or soft spots.
- Fresh vs. dried dill: Fresh dill offers a more vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it available, you can use dried dill, but reduce the amount to a teaspoon, as the flavor is more concentrated.
- Vegan option: If you want a vegan option, you can replace the sour cream with soy yogurt or vegan sour cream.
- Interesting additions: You can add cubes of feta cheese or a few olives to enhance the flavor of the salad.

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are an excellent source of water, with high hydration content, making them ideal for warm days. They are also low in calories, with only about 16 calories per 100 g, making them a great choice for a balanced diet. Sour cream adds a source of healthy fats and protein, while dill contains antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
Cucumber salad can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

2. What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great alternative, providing a creamy texture and similar taste.

3. Is this salad suitable for a festive meal?
Absolutely! Cucumber salad with sour cream is an excellent accompaniment to meat or fish dishes, adding a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the salad in small bowls, garnished with a few fresh dill leaves. You can accompany the salad with fresh homemade bread or a refreshing drink, such as iced mint tea or a fresh fruit cocktail.

By experimenting with this simple cucumber salad recipe with sour cream, you will not only enjoy a delicious dish but also bring a touch of freshness to your table. Try it and let yourself be inspired by the natural flavors and the crunchy texture of the cucumbers!