Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly refreshing side dish or light lunch? Look no further! This sweet and sour cucumber recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. It's the perfect complement to grilled meats, Asian-inspired meals, or simply enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack. This recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and satisfying homemade cooking can be, even with limited time and ingredients. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers are ideal, but any variety will work)
- 1/2 cup white vinegar (rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar also work well)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. Using a mandoline slicer ensures even thickness, but a sharp knife works just fine. If using seedy cucumbers, you may wish to halve them lengthwise and scoop out the seeds for a less watery result.
-
Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
-
Combine and Marinate: Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure all the cucumbers are coated evenly.
-
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to absorb the flavors. The longer they marinate, the more intense the sweet and sour taste will become. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving, if desired.
Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Cucumbers:
-
Thinly Sliced Cucumbers: The thinner your cucumber slices, the better they'll absorb the dressing and the quicker they'll marinate.
-
Adjust to your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or soy sauce to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a bit more sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar.
-
Add Some Crunch: To add some extra texture, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts before serving.
Variations:
-
Spicy Sweet and Sour: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a small finely chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
-
Ginger Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the dressing for a more complex flavor profile.
-
Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of garlic for a stronger garlicky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a refreshing and healthy option for a quick side dish or snack. The exact nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used. However, a typical serving provides a low-calorie, low-fat meal rich in vitamins and minerals. We recommend using a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis based on your specific ingredients and serving size.
This sweet and sour cucumber recipe is a simple yet delicious addition to any meal. Its quick preparation time and fresh flavors make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a refreshing summer treat. Enjoy!