Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad: A Refreshing Delight
The Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe is a family heirloom, passed down from my grandmothers who would harvest their garden’s bounty every summer to create this cooling side dish. This delightful salad pairs perfectly with any meal, offering a crisp and refreshing bite.
Yield: Perfect for Gatherings
Prep: 15 mins, Additional: 15 mins, Total: 30 mins
Servings: 14, Yield: 14 servings
Ingredients for the Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
– 7 cups sliced cucumbers
– salt as needed
– 1 cup sliced onions
– 1 cup sliced green bell pepper (Optional)
– 2 cups white sugar
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon celery seed (Optional)
– 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
Instructions: How to Make the Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
Prepare the Vegetables
1. Begin by slicing the cucumbers and onions thinly and evenly. If you choose to include the optional ingredient, slice the green bell pepper as well.
Combine the Ingredients
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Salt them lightly and set aside to allow the flavors to mingle.
Create the Dressing
3. In another bowl, mix 2 cups of white sugar with 1 cup of white vinegar until the sugar dissolves. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of celery seed for an added touch of flavor.
Combine and Chill
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Give everything a good mix so ingredients are evenly coated.
Add Ice and Adjust Seasoning
5. One great tip from my grandma is to add ice to the salad. This not only chills it quickly but also softens the vinegar’s sharpness. After that, adjust the seasoning by adding an additional 2 teaspoons of salt if needed.
Optional: Healthier Preparation Tips
For a healthier version, consider using a honey or a natural sweetener instead of white sugar. This substitution will lower the overall sugar content while keeping the dish naturally sweet.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
Firstly, this Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe is refreshingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for hot summer days. In addition, the crunchiness of fresh vegetables combined with the tangy sweet dressing is a flavor experience like no other. Consequently, this salad serves as an excellent side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. Above all, it celebrates seasonal produce in the best way!
