Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes

Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes, also known as Cucumber and Zucchini Salad, is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This salad is easy to make and is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of cucumbers and zucchinis.

History

This recipe has its origins in French cuisine, where fresh vegetables are often used to create simple yet delicious dishes. The combination of cucumbers and zucchinis in a tangy vinegar-based dressing is a classic French salad that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, scored with a fork, not peeled but thinly sliced
2 medium zucchini, raw, same size as cucumbers, prepared the same way
0.5 cup white vinegar
4 tbsp sugar
1 cup hot water
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp coarse black pepper (freshly ground if available)
1 tsp crushed red pepper

How to prepare

In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) bowl, layer the cucumber and zucchini alternately.
Combine white vinegar with sugar dissolved in hot water, salt, coarse black pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Drain any excess water from the cucumbers before adding the dressing.
Allow the vegetables to marinate in the dressing for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve with meat or poultry.
Please note that no oil is used in the dressing.
The amount of sugar used in this dressing is not excessive.
If desired, an artificial sweetener can be used as a substitute for sugar.

Variations

Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the salad for added flavor.
Mix in some cherry tomatoes or red onion for a pop of color and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to score the cucumbers with a fork before slicing them to allow the dressing to penetrate the vegetables.

- Marinating the vegetables in the dressing for at least 1 hour will allow the flavors to develop and enhance the overall taste of the salad.

- Drain any excess water from the cucumbers before adding the dressing to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing and crisp texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal.

- This salad can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

Cooking Techniques

Scoring the cucumbers with a fork before slicing them helps to absorb the dressing and enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly 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 drain any excess liquid before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine or a light and refreshing beer for a perfect summer meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

50 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

0g per serving

Proteins

1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

This salad is low in calories and fats, making it a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a light and refreshing dish.

Summary

Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes is a simple yet delicious salad that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its tangy vinegar dressing and fresh vegetables, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, just like today, when I stumbled upon the quaint little French cafe tucked away in the bustling streets of Paris. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread and the sound of sizzling pans.

I took a seat at a small table by the window and perused the menu, my eyes instantly drawn to the Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes. I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about it intrigued me. I decided to take a leap of faith and order it, hoping that it would be as delicious as it sounded.

When the salad arrived, I was taken aback by its beauty. The vibrant colors of the cucumbers and zucchinis were accented by the bright red tomatoes and the sprinkling of fresh herbs on top. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before.

I called over the chef and begged him to share the recipe with me. He chuckled and obliged, writing down the ingredients and instructions on a wrinkled napkin. I thanked him profusely and tucked the napkin into my purse, knowing that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

Back home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work, following the chef's instructions to the letter. As the salad came together, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of recreating that magical moment in Paris in my own kitchen.

The first bite brought back all the memories of that day, and I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart forever. Over the years, I have made the Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes countless times, each time perfecting the flavors and tweaking the ingredients to suit my taste.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of its creation to future generations. It has become a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for exploring new flavors and ingredients.

As I sit here now, preparing the salad for a family gathering, I can't help but feel grateful for that chance encounter in Paris all those years ago. It was the spark that ignited my love for French cuisine and inspired me to continue learning and experimenting in the kitchen.

And as I take a bite of the Salade de Cocombres et de Courgettes, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and create lasting memories. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings into my life.