Fresh cucumber salad

Fresh Cucumber Salad - The Summer Indulgence in Every Bite

When it comes to salads, nothing compares to the freshness of a cucumber salad. This simple yet flavorful recipe is an ideal choice for hot summer days or as a side dish for your favorite meals. Cucumber salad is not just a delicious accompaniment but also a true source of hydration and nutrients, thanks to its high water and vitamin content.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium, fresh, and crunchy cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 50 ml apple cider vinegar

The History of Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salad has deep roots in traditional cuisines around the world. Over time, people have discovered that adding a splash of acidity, such as vinegar, enhances the natural flavor of vegetables, turning them into a delicacy. This salad has always been popular for its versatility, being served as a side dish or a main course, depending on the occasion.

Preparing Cucumber Salad - Step by Step

1. Washing and Peeling the Cucumbers
Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers under cold running water. It is essential to remove any pesticides or impurities. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added fiber and color, but for a smoother texture, I recommend peeling it. Slice the cucumbers thinly, about 2-3 mm thick. This will allow the salt and dressing to penetrate the vegetable better, giving it a more intense flavor.

2. Salting the Cucumbers
Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over them. Gently mix to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Let the cucumbers sit for 10 minutes. This important step helps extract juice from the cucumbers, which will enhance the salad's flavor and contribute to a more pleasant texture.

3. Preparing the Dressing
After the 10 minutes, add 30 ml of extra virgin olive oil and 50 ml of apple cider vinegar over the cucumbers. The olive oil adds a note of richness and a delicate flavor, while the apple cider vinegar provides acidity, perfectly balancing the salad. Mix the ingredients well, ensuring each cucumber slice is coated with the dressing.

4. Serving
The cucumber salad is ready to serve! It can be enjoyed immediately, but I recommend letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and add an extra chill to the salad. It is an excellent accompaniment to meat dishes, such as grilled steak or fried zucchini, but it also pairs wonderfully with feta cheese or mozzarella.

Practical Tips and Variations

- If you want to add a flavor note, you can include chopped fresh dill or oregano in the dressing.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a more complex and sweet flavor.
- Experiment with different types of oil, such as sesame oil, for a salad with Asian influences.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced red onion for a splash of color and texture.
- If you like salads with a spicy kick, feel free to add a few slices of hot pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are extremely nutritious, having a high water content (about 95%), making them ideal for hydration. They are also low in calories, with only 16 calories per 100 g, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight. They are also a good source of vitamins K, C, and potassium, thus contributing to bone health and the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pickled cucumbers in this recipe?
Pickled cucumbers can add an interesting flavor, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe since they are already salty.

2. Can I keep cucumber salad for the next day?
Cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you keep it, keep in mind that the cucumbers will continue to release water, and the salad will become soggy.

3. How can I make the salad more substantial?
If you want a heartier salad, you can add crunchy vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or include proteins like tuna or grilled chicken.

Delicious Combinations

This cucumber salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. I suggest serving it alongside fried zucchini and cheese or pairing it with grilled chicken. It is also an excellent accompaniment to fish-based dishes or even with some delicious kebabs.

A Personal Touch

For a touch of originality, I like to add a few slices of lime or lemon to enhance the dressing's flavor. Additionally, a handful of toasted sesame seeds can add a crunchy texture and a unique taste.

In conclusion, cucumber salad is a quick, simple, and versatile recipe, perfect for any meal. I invite you to try it and personalize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy your meal!