Creamy Cucumber Salad brings to mind a small farmhouse in the deep South. It’s a dish that a mother would make using a recipe handed down from her mother, and her mother before that. It’s one of those dishes that will warm your body and soul with each bite. I’ve used this salad for years when we were in the heat of summer. It was always thought to be a “summer dish” because it was such a refreshing meal when it was hot outside.
This is the perfect dish for an evening dinner on the porch when there is a nice cool breeze in the air.
How to Prepare the Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 large Cucumbers
- 1 medium Sweet Onion
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup White Sugar
- 1/4 cup White Vinegar
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Directions:
Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling the four large cucumbers. For consistent and even slices, use a Mandoline slicer. Proceed to thinly slice the cucumbers and set them aside. Next, thinly slice the medium-sized sweet onion.
Choose a suitable bowl, preferably ceramic, glass, or plastic, with a lid. Combine the sliced cucumbers and onions in this bowl.
In a separate, smaller bowl, start preparing the dressing. Add one cup of mayonnaise, half a cup of white sugar, and a quarter cup of white vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth and homogenous mixture.
Pour this mayonnaise-based dressing over the cucumber and onion slices in the larger bowl. Gently mix them to ensure even coating of the vegetables with the dressing. Season the salad with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
After mixing, cover the bowl with its lid. Shake the covered bowl gently to distribute the dressing evenly. Marinate the salad in the refrigerator. We recommend marinating it for at least six hours; however, leaving it overnight will blend the flavors more thoroughly.
Before serving, stir the salad lightly. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful for later enjoyment.
Frequent Asked Questions:
What type of cucumbers work best for Creamy Cucumber Salad?
For the Creamy Cucumber Salad, using large cucumbers is ideal. They have more flesh and fewer seeds, providing a better texture and flavor. English or garden cucumbers are excellent choices due to their mild taste and fewer seeds.
Can I use a different type of onion instead of a sweet onion?
Yes, you can use different types of onions for this salad. Sweet onions are preferred for their mild flavor, but you can substitute with red onions for a sharper taste or white onions for a more pungent flavor. Adjust the quantity based on the onion’s intensity.
Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise for this recipe?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise. Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor and creaminess, while low-fat mayonnaise reduces the calorie content without compromising the texture.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe to suit your taste. The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, but you can adjust the quantity or use a sugar substitute. Start with less sugar and adjust according to your preference.
What is the purpose of using white vinegar in the salad?
White vinegar in the Creamy Cucumber Salad adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the creamy mayonnaise and sweet sugar. It helps to balance the flavors and adds a refreshing zing to the salad.
How important is it to let the salad marinate, and can I serve it immediately?
Allowing the salad to marinate is crucial for developing the flavors. It’s recommended to refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or overnight. This process lets the cucumbers and onions absorb the dressing, enhancing the overall taste. Serving immediately won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
Can I add herbs or other spices to this salad?
Yes, you can add herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the salad for extra flavor. Spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper can also be added for a unique twist. Adjust the quantities to your taste preference.
Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers for the salad?
Peeling the cucumbers is not strictly necessary but recommended for this recipe. The skin can be tough and bitter, which might affect the salad’s overall texture and taste. However, if you prefer the skin for its nutritional value, ensure the cucumbers are washed thoroughly.
What are the best serving suggestions for Creamy Cucumber Salad?
Creamy Cucumber Salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side dish at picnics and barbecues. It can also be served alongside other salads or as a standalone light meal during hot summer days.
How long does Creamy Cucumber Salad last in the refrigerator?
You can store this salad in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The flavor might get stronger over time, so it’s best to consume it within a few days.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 4 large Cucumbers
- 1 medium Sweet Onion
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup White Sugar
- 1/4 cup White Vinegar
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash, peel and thinly slice 4 large cucumbers. Use a Mandoline for uniformity.
- Thinly slice 1 medium sweet onion.
- Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a ceramic, glass or plastic bowl that has a lid.
- In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar. Mix until smooth.
- Turn the mayonnaise mixture into the cucumber and onion mixture, combine well.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover with a lid, shake lightly.
- Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours (overnight works well).
- Refrigerate leftovers.
