Cucumbers and Onions
Cucumbers and Onions Recipe from Scotland
Introduction
Cucumbers and onions is a classic and refreshing salad that is perfect for a summer day or as a side dish for a barbecue. The combination of crisp cucumbers and tangy onions, mixed with a creamy dressing, creates a delicious and light dish that is sure to please.
History
Cucumbers and onions have been enjoyed together in various forms for centuries. This particular recipe is a popular Southern dish that has been passed down through generations. It is a simple and easy-to-make salad that is loved for its fresh and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers
- 2 medium onions
- salt
- 2 – 3 tbsp mayonnaise or salad dressing
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vinegar
How to prepare
- Peel the cucumbers and slice them thinly.
- Layer the cucumber slices in a shallow dish, sprinkling each layer with salt.
- Let the cucumbers stand overnight.
- In the morning, drain the cucumbers and rinse them.
- Let the cucumbers dry on paper towels.
- Slice the onions thinly.
- Gently mix the cucumber slices with the sliced onions.
- Beat together the mayonnaise or salad dressing, sugar, and vinegar until creamy.
- Stir the creamy dressing into the mixed cucumbers and onions.
- Make sure the dressing is plentiful so that the salad is creamy.
- If needed, increase the amounts of dressing ingredients proportionally.
Variations
- Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Use a vinaigrette dressing instead of a creamy one for a lighter option.
- Sprinkle feta cheese or olives on top for a Mediterranean twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to slice the cucumbers and onions thinly for the best texture and flavor.
- Allowing the cucumbers to stand overnight with salt helps to draw out excess moisture and enhances the crunchiness of the salad.
- Adjust the amount of dressing to your preference - some like it more creamy, while others prefer a lighter dressing.
- For a twist, try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the salad for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cucumbers and onions salad chilled as a side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches. It also pairs well with seafood dishes.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking technique for this recipe is slicing the cucumbers and onions thinly to ensure a uniform texture and flavor throughout the salad.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the salad dressing with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter dressing option. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to mix in the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the cucumbers and onions salad in a glass bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or burgers. It also complements dishes like pulled pork sandwiches or barbecue ribs.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the cucumbers will become mushy. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories per serving: 100
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 12g per serving
Fats
Fats: 5g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and Minerals: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K and potassium, while onions provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
Alergens
Allergens: May contain dairy (depending on the salad dressing used)
Summary
This salad is low in calories and fats, making it a healthy and nutritious option for a side dish or snack.
Summary
Cucumbers and onions salad is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its crisp texture, tangy flavor, and creamy dressing, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or barbecue. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Cucumbers and Onions. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was known for her delicious garden-fresh meals, and on that particular day, she served me a side dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
As I took my first bite of the crunchy cucumbers and tangy onions, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Margaret smiled at my enthusiasm and handed me a handwritten recipe card. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.
I held onto that recipe card like it was a priceless treasure. When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and trying my hand at making the dish. The simplicity of the recipe surprised me - just cucumbers, onions, vinegar, sugar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. But the flavor combination was absolutely divine.
Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, perfecting it with each batch. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition just like Margaret did for me. Each time I make Cucumbers and Onions, I am transported back to that sunny day in Margaret's garden, surrounded by love and laughter.
As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I can't help but think of all the other recipes I have collected over the years. Each one has a story behind it, a memory attached to it that makes it special. Whether it's my mother's famous meatloaf or my aunt's decadent chocolate cake, each dish holds a piece of my heart.
I remember the first time I learned how to make my grandmother's chicken and dumplings. I was just a young girl, eager to help in the kitchen. My grandmother showed me how to mix the dough for the dumplings, rolling it out on a floured surface and cutting it into perfect little squares. The aroma of the simmering chicken broth filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.
As we sat down to eat, my grandmother watched me with a smile as I took my first bite of the tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. It was a simple meal, but it was made with love, and that made all the difference. From that moment on, I was hooked on the magic of cooking - the way a few simple ingredients could come together to create something truly special.
Through the years, I have added my own twists and tweaks to my grandmother's recipe, making it my own. But every time I make chicken and dumplings, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen, surrounded by the ones I love. And I am grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through the generations.
Each recipe in my collection tells a story - a story of love, of tradition, of memories shared around the dinner table. I am grateful for the friendships and family bonds that have been strengthened through the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal together. And I am grateful for the joy that each new recipe brings into my life.
So as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I will always remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw that recipe for Cucumbers and Onions. And I will cherish the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me, one dish at a time.
Categories
| Cucumber Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Onion Recipes | Prepared Salad Dressing Recipes | Scottish Recipes | Scottish Salads |