Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad Recipe from Germany

Region / culture: Germany | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of sweet and sour flavors with the crispness of cucumbers makes it a delightful side dish or snack.

History

This recipe has its origins in traditional European cuisine, where pickling and preserving vegetables was a common practice to extend their shelf life. The sweet and sour flavor profile was popularized in the United States in the mid-20th century and has since become a classic dish in many households.

Ingredients

3 cucumbers
0.33 cup of sugar
0.33 cup of white vinegar

How to prepare

Take the cucumbers, peel them, and thinly slice them using a grater or a mouli.
Layer the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle salt on each layer.
Allow the cucumbers to sit for at least 0.5 hour until they wilt.
Thoroughly wash off the salt from the cucumbers.
Meanwhile, mix white vinegar with sugar in about equal proportions.
Toss the cucumbers with the vinegar and sugar mixture, and chill.
You may need to adjust the ratio of vinegar to sugar according to your personal taste.
For a salad made with 3 cucumbers, you can use approximately 0.25 – 0.33 cup each of vinegar and sugar.
You have the option to add dill seed to the salad, but it can also be enjoyed plain.

Variations

Add thinly sliced red onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the cucumbers thinly to ensure they absorb the flavors of the vinegar and sugar mixture.

- Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt before rinsing helps to draw out excess moisture and enhances their crispness.

- Adjust the ratio of vinegar to sugar to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad is to allow the cucumbers to marinate in the vinegar and sugar mixture for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe. Alternatively, you can use a sugar substitute like honey or agave nectar for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, pork chops, or seafood dishes. It also makes a great accompaniment to sandwiches or wraps.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To serve, simply remove from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad is a protein-free dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. The vinegar in the salad also provides small amounts of minerals like iron and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamin C and potassium. It is a healthy and refreshing option for a light meal or snack.

Summary

Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light and healthy snack. With its tangy and refreshing flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a hot summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon the secret to making the most delicious Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad. I was visiting my dear friend Clara, who was known in our small town for her culinary skills. She invited me over for lunch, promising me a taste of something extraordinary.

As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was hit with the fragrant aroma of fresh dill and vinegar. Clara beamed with excitement as she presented me with a bowl of vibrant green cucumbers, swimming in a tangy-sweet dressing. With each bite, my taste buds danced with delight, savoring the perfect balance of flavors.

I couldn't help but ask Clara for the recipe, eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece in my own home. She chuckled and handed me a tattered old recipe card, telling me that it was a family heirloom passed down through generations. I treasured that card like a precious gem, knowing that it held the key to unlocking a world of culinary magic.

Over the years, I perfected the art of making Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad, adding my own twist to the classic recipe. I shared it with friends and family, who couldn't get enough of its refreshing taste. Each time I made it, I was transported back to that fateful day in Clara's kitchen, where my love for cooking was ignited.

The secret to making the perfect Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad lies in the quality of the ingredients. I always start with crisp, fresh cucumbers, preferably straight from the garden. I carefully slice them into thin rounds, allowing their natural crunch to shine through in every bite.

Next, I prepare the dressing, a harmonious blend of vinegar, sugar, and dill. The vinegar brings a tangy acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The dill adds a fragrant herbaceous note that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

As I mix the cucumbers with the dressing, I can't help but smile, knowing that I am creating something truly special. The colors and textures come together in a beautiful symphony of flavors, each bite a burst of summer goodness.

I often think of Clara as I make this salad, grateful for her generosity in sharing her family recipe with me. She taught me that food is not just about sustenance, but about creating memories and sharing love with those around you. Every time I serve this Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad, I am reminded of the bond we shared over a simple bowl of cucumbers.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of the salad I just made, I am filled with a sense of contentment. The flavors are just as perfect as I remember, each bite bringing me back to that hot summer day in Clara's kitchen. I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, a treasure that I will continue to cherish for years to come.

In the end, it is not just the ingredients or the techniques that make this Sweet-Sour Cucumber Salad so special. It is the love and memories that are infused into every bite, a reminder of the joy that cooking can bring. And for that, I am forever grateful.