Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with fresh flavor? Look no further! This recipe for cucumbers and onions with vinegar is the perfect complement to any summer meal. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a vibrant and tangy taste that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, offering a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Using a mandoline slicer can ensure even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. The thinner the slices, the better they'll absorb the vinegar mixture.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onions.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
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Marinate: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions, gently tossing to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer (up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to become delightfully crisp. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavor will become.
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Serve: Before serving, give the cucumber and onion salad a final toss. Garnish with fresh dill, if using. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or salads. This makes a fantastic addition to any healthy meal.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar to 1 tablespoon or even omit it entirely. Taste and adjust to your preference.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herbs Galore: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or tarragon.
- Garlic Lovers: Mince a clove or two of garlic and add it to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Different Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a milder, fruitier taste than white vinegar. Experiment to find your favorite!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free addition to your healthy meals. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 30-40
- Fat: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
This delicious and easy recipe for cucumbers and onions with vinegar is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. This homemade cooking creation offers a refreshing and flavorful experience, perfect for those hot summer days or as a simple yet elegant side to any meal. Enjoy!