Cucumber Ribbon Salad
Cucumber Ribbon Salad Recipe from England | Vegetarian
Introduction
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a refreshing and light dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of crisp cucumber ribbons and a tangy dressing makes for a delicious and healthy side dish or light meal.
History
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a modern twist on the classic cucumber salad. The use of cucumber ribbons instead of slices gives the dish a more elegant and visually appealing presentation. This recipe has become popular in recent years as people look for lighter and healthier alternatives to traditional salads.
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup of seasoned rice vinegar
- 0.5 tsp of sugar
- 1 tsp of soy sauce
- 0.5 tsp of sesame oil
- 1.5 english cucumber, halved crosswise (1.25 lb (567 g) total)
How to prepare
- In a saucepan, bring vinegar and sugar to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Then, allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Next, stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Using a mandolin or other manual slicer, cut the cucumber lengthwise into ribbons that are 0.13 inches thick.
- Toss the cucumber with the dressing and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs such as dill or mint to the dressing. You can also add some thinly sliced red onion or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making Cucumber Ribbon Salad, it is important to use a mandolin or other manual slicer to cut the cucumber into thin, uniform ribbons. This will ensure that the salad has a consistent texture and appearance. Additionally, be sure to let the dressing sit on the cucumber for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber Ribbon Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making a great Cucumber Ribbon Salad is to slice the cucumber into thin, uniform ribbons. This can be done using a mandolin or a vegetable peeler.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have seasoned rice vinegar, you can use regular rice vinegar and add a pinch of salt and pepper to the dressing. You can also substitute honey or agave nectar for the sugar.
Make Ahead Tips
Cucumber Ribbon Salad can be made up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to toss the salad again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Presentation Ideas
To make the salad more visually appealing, try arranging the cucumber ribbons in a spiral pattern on a serving platter. You can also garnish the salad with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture.
Pairing Recommendations
Cucumber Ribbon Salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also goes well with dishes that have a spicy or savory flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give the salad a good toss before serving again.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 30 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 6g per serving
Fats
Fats: 1g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and vegan.
Summary
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carb dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With its crisp cucumber ribbons and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered the recipe for Cucumber Ribbon Salad. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly afternoon tea. Margaret was an excellent cook, always surprising me with new and delicious dishes.
As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on our tea and chatting about this and that, Margaret suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She returned moments later with a large cucumber and a sharp knife. Curious, I watched as she expertly peeled the cucumber into long, thin ribbons and tossed them in a bowl.
Next, Margaret added a splash of rice vinegar, a drizzle of honey, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. She gently tossed the ingredients together, creating a simple yet elegant salad that was bursting with flavor. As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the refreshing taste and crisp texture of the dish.
"Margaret, this is incredible!" I exclaimed, reaching for a second helping. "How did you come up with this recipe?"
Margaret smiled and shrugged. "Oh, it's just something I picked up from a friend during my travels. It's a perfect summer dish, don't you think?"
From that moment on, Cucumber Ribbon Salad became a staple in my own kitchen. I loved how versatile the recipe was – I could add different herbs, spices, or even some feta cheese to mix things up. It quickly became a favorite among my family and friends, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.
Over the years, I continued to tweak and perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I shared it with my daughters, who now make it for their own families, carrying on the tradition of delicious, homemade meals passed down through the generations.
As I reflect on that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. Each recipe I have learned, whether from a friend, a cookbook, or my own experimentation, holds a special place in my heart. And Cucumber Ribbon Salad will always remind me of the joy and connection that can be found in sharing a meal with loved ones.
So, the next time you find yourself craving a light and refreshing dish to enjoy on a warm summer day, give my Cucumber Ribbon Salad a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll create your own memories and stories to pass down to future generations.
Happy cooking!
With love,
Grandma
Categories
| Cucumber Salad Recipes | English Cucumber Recipes | English Recipes | North Korean Salads | North Korean Vegetarian | Rice Vinegar Recipes | Sesame Oil Recipes |