John’s Cucumber Sweet Onion Salad with Lime Pepper Dressing
Description
Indulging in a refreshing salad on a hot summer night can be a delightful experience, and John’s Cucumber Sweet Onion Salad with Lime Pepper Dressing delivers just that. The fusion of flavors in this dish is truly remarkable, and as it marinates, the ingredients meld together, creating a harmony that tantalizes the palate. While it’s tempting to dig in right away, allowing the salad to marinate for a full 24 hours significantly enhances the taste. Trust us—once you try this vibrant dish, it will quickly become a staple for your warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 6 |
| Limes (juice) | 2 |
| Sea Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| White Sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Olive Oil | ½ cup |
| White Wine Vinegar | ¼ cup |
| Water | ¼ cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 75 |
| Total Fat | 4.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 101.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 3.9 g |
| Protein | 1.3 g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 24 hours (marination) |
| Total Time | 24 hours 20 minutes |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by running a fork down the length of the cucumbers, creating slight indentations all over their surface. This technique not only enhances the presentation but also helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing more effectively.
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Halve the Cucumbers: Carefully cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. This step will make it easier to scoop out the seeds in the next step.
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Seed the Cucumbers: Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds from each cucumber half. This will prevent the salad from becoming watery and ensures a better texture.
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Cut into Strips: After seeding, slice the cucumber halves into 1/8-inch strips. This uniformity in size will help with even marination.
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Slice the Onion: Peel the onion and cut it lengthwise into quarters. Once quartered, slice the quarters crosswise into thin strips. The sweet onion will add a delightful crunch and flavor to the salad.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber strips and sliced onions. Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice, sea salt, and white sugar.
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Toss Well: Using your hands or a large spoon, toss the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated with the lime juice, salt, and sugar.
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Add Additional Flavors: Next, incorporate the hot pepper flakes, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and water into the bowl. Toss everything again until the ingredients are well mixed.
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Marinate the Salad: Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the salad for a full 24 hours. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a refreshing and zesty salad.
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Serve and Enjoy: After the marination period, stir the salad once more before serving to redistribute the dressing. This cucumber and sweet onion salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues or summer picnics.
Conclusion
John’s Cucumber Sweet Onion Salad with Lime Pepper Dressing is more than just a side dish; it’s an experience that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch, this salad is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their warm-weather meals. So, gather your ingredients, set aside a day for marination, and enjoy the delightful taste of this salad that promises to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
