There’s just something about Grandma’s cucumber salad that instantly transports me back to those sunny family gatherings in her backyard. I can still picture the big wooden table, covered with delicious dishes, and that unmistakable tangy aroma wafting through the air. This salad is incredibly refreshing, with crisp cucumbers and vibrant tomatoes that just scream summer! Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it’s the perfect side dish to complement any meal. I love how simple it is to whip up, yet it always brings a smile to everyone’s face. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it for every cookout, picnic, and family dinner. It’s a little piece of nostalgia that I’m thrilled to share with you!
Ingredients for Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful and refreshing salad that will remind you of those warm family gatherings:
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers (I love using English cucumbers for their crispness!)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (any variety works, but juicy ones are the best)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion (adds a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (this gives the salad that tangy kick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a bit of richness)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, just sprinkle a bit in!)
- Black pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite!)
These simple, fresh ingredients come together beautifully, creating a salad that’s not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare! You can easily adjust the quantities based on your preferences or the size of your gathering. Enjoy the process and the memories that come with it!
How to Prepare Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
Making Grandma’s cucumber salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process! Follow along, and soon you’ll have a bowl of refreshing goodness ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
First things first, let’s get those veggies ready! Start by washing the sliced cucumbers under cold water to remove any dirt. Once they’re clean, slice them thinly; this way, they soak up the dressing beautifully. Next, grab your diced tomatoes—I usually go for juicy varieties for that burst of flavor! And don’t forget the chopped red onion; just a quick chop will do, and it adds that delightful crunch and sweetness to the mix.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up the dressing! In a medium-sized bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. I like to whisk it all together until it’s well blended and the sugar is dissolved. This dressing is tangy and slightly sweet, the perfect complement to our fresh veggies!
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Add the prepared sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion into the bowl with the dressing. Now, gently toss everything together until every piece is beautifully coated in that delicious dressing. Just be careful not to mush the tomatoes—nobody wants a salad that looks like a smoothie!
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing. Trust me, the wait is worth it—your taste buds will be dancing with joy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this salad up in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those busy days when you want something fresh.
- Refreshing Taste: The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy dressing makes every bite feel like a burst of summer.
- Perfect for Summer: This salad is the ultimate side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any outdoor gathering. It cools you down while adding a pop of color to your table!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Suitable for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a family reunion or a simple dinner with friends, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Seriously, with all these fantastic benefits, it’s hard not to love Grandma’s cucumber salad! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer and family.
Tips for Success
Creating the perfect Grandma’s cucumber salad is all about those little touches that make a big difference. Here are my top tips to ensure your salad shines at every gathering!
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the dressing to suit your taste! If you like it tangier, add a splash more vinegar. Prefer it sweeter? Just a pinch more sugar can do wonders. It’s all about finding that perfect balance!
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They brighten up the salad and add a lovely aroma. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the veggies!
- Make Ahead: This salad is actually better if you prepare it a day in advance! The flavors deepen as they meld together in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep or parties.
- Keep It Crisp: If you’re making this salad ahead of time, consider storing the cucumbers separately until you’re ready to serve. This helps them stay crisp and prevents the salad from becoming watery.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add in bell peppers, avocado, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a little extra zing. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making Grandma proud with your cucumber salad! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of Grandma’s cucumber salad. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 1g
Enjoy this light and refreshing salad guilt-free, knowing it’s not only delicious but also a healthy addition to your meal! Perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying.
FAQ About Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
Got questions about Grandma’s cucumber salad? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my go-to answers to help you make this salad a hit.
How long does it last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. However, I recommend eating it within the first couple of days for the best flavor and texture!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This salad is super versatile. Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and color. Just be sure to keep the balance of flavors in mind so it complements the cucumbers.
What can I serve it with?
Grandma’s cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light lunch option alongside some crusty bread. It’s a refreshing side that complements almost any main dish, making it a perfect addition to your summer gatherings!
Can I use different types of cucumbers?
Of course! While I love using English cucumbers for their sweetness and crunch, you can also use regular cucumbers or even Persian cucumbers. Just remember to slice them thinly for the best texture!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Just remember to store the cucumbers separately if you’re making it in advance, as this keeps them crisp. You can mix everything together right before serving for maximum freshness!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have this delightful bowl of Grandma’s cucumber salad ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy it! This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience:
- Grilled Meats: Whether it’s juicy grilled chicken, tender steak, or even some flavorful grilled shrimp, this salad is the perfect refreshing side. The coolness of the salad balances out the smokiness of the meat beautifully!
- Sandwiches: Picture this: a hearty sandwich piled high with your favorite deli meats and cheeses, and a side of Grandma’s cucumber salad. It adds a nice crunch and lightens up the meal—so satisfying!
- Fish Dishes: If you’re serving up some grilled salmon or baked tilapia, this salad complements those flaky, flavorful fish perfectly. The tangy dressing and fresh veggies enhance the flavors of the seafood!
- As a Light Lunch: On a warm day, enjoy a generous scoop of the salad with some crusty bread or pita. You can even add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a bit of creaminess! It’s light, refreshing, and totally satisfying without weighing you down.
- Picnics and Potlucks: This salad is a hit at any gathering! Pack it up for a picnic or bring it to a potluck, and watch it disappear! Its vibrant colors and delicious flavor make it a standout dish.
No matter how you choose to serve it, I promise Grandma’s cucumber salad will add a burst of freshness and joy to your meal. Enjoy every bite, and happy eating!
Print
Grandma’s Cucumber Salad: 5 Steps to Refreshing Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and simple salad made with cucumbers and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and slice them thinly.
- Dice the tomatoes and chop the red onion.
- In a bowl, combine vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions to the dressing.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: grandmas cucumber salad
