Caribbean Cucumber Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly complements summer BBQ evenings with its delightful balance of tartness and a hint of heat. This recipe, tailored for 2 servings, embodies the essence of Caribbean flavors while being effortlessly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or snack option. Let’s dive into the intricacies of this culinary creation, from its tantalizing ingredients to its simple yet meticulous preparation steps.
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 chili peppers
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 garlic clove
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 65.5
- Fat Content: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 1172.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 15.7g
- Fiber Content: 2.2g
- Sugar Content: 7.3g
- Protein Content: 2.8g
Recipe Instructions:
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Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Start by slicing the cucumbers lengthwise and removing the seeds using a spoon or melon baller. This step helps to ensure a crisp and clean texture in your salad.
- Once seeded, slice each cucumber half into 1/2 inch slices. This size provides a perfect balance between bite-sized pieces and maintaining the cucumber’s structural integrity.
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Season and Rest:
- Transfer the sliced cucumbers into a bowl and sprinkle them evenly with the teaspoon of salt. The salt not only enhances the flavor but also draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, ensuring they stay crisp.
- Gently toss the cucumbers to ensure they are evenly coated with the salt, then let them sit for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the salt to work its magic, infusing the cucumbers with flavor while maintaining their freshness.
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Drain and Combine:
- After the 30-minute resting period, drain any excess moisture from the cucumbers thoroughly. This step prevents the salad from becoming overly watery and ensures the flavors remain concentrated.
- Transfer the drained cucumbers into a serving bowl, ready to be infused with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean.
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Add Flavorful Elements:
- Finely chop the chili peppers, adjusting the quantity based on your preference for heat. For those who prefer a milder flavor profile, using just one pepper is recommended.
- Next, mince the garlic clove, adding a savory depth to the salad.
- Combine the chopped chili peppers, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice with the drained cucumbers in the serving bowl.
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Final Touches and Resting Period:
- Toss the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cover the bowl and let the salad rest at room temperature for an additional 1 hour before serving. This final resting period allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a harmonious blend of tangy lime, spicy chili, and refreshing cucumber.
Serving Suggestions:
Caribbean Cucumber Salad is best served chilled, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine through. Serve it alongside grilled meats or seafood at your summer BBQ gatherings for a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the grill. Additionally, it makes for a delightful addition to potluck gatherings or as a quick and healthy weeknight snack. With its low protein, vegan, and low cholesterol attributes, this salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for any occasion.
Reviews and Rating:
With an aggregated rating of 4.5 stars based on 5 reviews, this Caribbean Cucumber Salad has garnered praise for its refreshing taste and simplicity. Reviewers have appreciated its versatility and ability to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and family meals alike.
In conclusion, this Caribbean Cucumber Salad recipe offers a tantalizing taste of the tropics, bringing together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a harmonious ensemble. Whether enjoyed on its own as a light snack or paired with your favorite grilled dishes, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to sunny Caribbean shores with every bite.
