Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my grandma’s cucumber salad! This recipe is a delightful burst of freshness that takes me straight back to her sun-drenched backyard during summer picnics. You can practically taste the love in every bite! What I adore about grandma’s cucumber salad is that it’s not only incredibly simple to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and crunch. The creamy dressing perfectly complements the crisp cucumbers and vibrant tomatoes, making it a refreshing side dish for almost any meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s the kind of salad that brings everyone together around the table, just like grandma used to do.
Ingredients List
- 4 cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds for that perfect crunch
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced to add a bit of zing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of sweetness
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped to bring in that herbaceous flavor
- 1/2 cup sour cream, adding creaminess that ties everything together
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar, for a tangy kick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, just enough to enhance the dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste, because a little seasoning goes a long way
How to Prepare Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
Alright, let’s dive into making this refreshing grandma’s cucumber salad! First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in those sliced cucumbers, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. I like to layer them carefully, so the colors pop when you mix them later. Now, sprinkle in the chopped fresh dill, and trust me, this is where the magic begins!
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, white vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. I love using a whisk for this part; it makes everything creamy and well-combined. Once you’ve got a smooth dressing, pour it over the cucumber mixture. Now, here comes the fun part—give it a gentle toss. You want everything evenly coated without smashing the delicate veggies.
Once everything is mingled together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial, as it allows the flavors to marry beautifully and makes the salad even more refreshing! After that, you’re all set to serve this delicious salad that’ll remind you of grandma’s love with every bite. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy days!
- Light and refreshing, making it an ideal summer side dish.
- Flavorful combination of crunchy cucumbers, tangy dressing, and vibrant veggies.
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Great for potlucks or barbecues—everyone loves it!
Tips for Success
To really nail grandma’s cucumber salad, here are some tips that I swear by! First, always use the freshest cucumbers you can find—look for ones that are firm and have a vibrant color. If possible, try to get them from a local farmer’s market for that just-picked taste!
Next, don’t skip the chilling time! Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you can, prep it the night before to really let those flavors shine.
Also, if you’re using leftovers, give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. And remember, you can always adjust the dressing to your liking—add a splash more vinegar for extra zing if that’s your jam! Enjoy experimenting!
Variations of Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up grandma’s cucumber salad! One of my favorites is to add some diced avocado for a creamy twist that pairs beautifully with the cucumbers. You can also toss in some thinly sliced bell peppers for an extra crunch and a pop of color!
Another delicious variation is to switch out the dressing. Try using a yogurt-based dressing instead of sour cream for a lighter option, or add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty kick. And if you’re a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a little heat! The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! This grandma’s cucumber salad is not only tasty but also pretty light on the waistline. Each serving, which is about 1 cup, has approximately 150 calories, 10g of fat, and 3g of protein. It’s got 12g of carbs and 2g of fiber, making it a refreshing and guilt-free addition to your meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences! Enjoy this salad knowing it’s both delicious and nutritious!
Serving Suggestions
Grandma’s cucumber salad pairs beautifully with so many dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, as the freshness of the salad complements the smoky flavors perfectly. It’s also fantastic as a side for barbecue ribs or burgers during those summer cookouts. And don’t forget to enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy dressing—trust me, you won’t regret it! This salad is versatile enough to brighten up any meal!
FAQ about Grandma’s Cucumber Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance or even the night before can enhance the flavors. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for sour cream? If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute! It still gives that creamy texture but with fewer calories.
How long will leftovers last? Leftover grandma’s cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a little stir before serving again.
Can I use different veggies? Of course! Feel free to add in some bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots to mix things up. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind!
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, it’s completely gluten-free! All the ingredients are naturally free of gluten, making it a safe choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep grandma’s cucumber salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to mix the dressing back in. There’s really no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and refreshing! So, just chill and dig into those delicious flavors straight from the fridge!
For more delicious salad recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.
Print
Grandma’s Cucumber Salad: 5 Flavorful Reasons to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing cucumber salad inspired by grandma’s recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Add chopped dill to the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, let the salad sit for a few hours.
- Can substitute sour cream with yogurt for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: grandmas cucumber salad
