Cucumber Salad. Mrs. Eliza Dickerson. Recipe

Cucumber Salad Recipe

History:

Cucumber salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Cucumbers have been grown and consumed for thousands of years, with evidence of their cultivation dating back to ancient Egypt, ancient Rome, and ancient Greece. In fact, cucumbers were so valued in ancient civilizations that they were even used as currency in certain regions.

Cucumbers were first introduced to North America by European settlers in the 16th century. Since then, they have become a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. Cucumber salads, in particular, have gained popularity due to their light and tangy flavors, making them a perfect side dish for any meal.

Fun Facts:

- Cucumbers belong to the same botanical family as melons and squashes, known as the Cucurbitaceae family.
- Cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, making them an excellent hydrating food.
- There are two main types of cucumbers: slicing cucumbers, which are typically larger and used for salads, and pickling cucumbers, which are smaller and used for pickling.

Cucumber Salad Recipe (Mrs. Eliza Dickerson):

Ingredients:
- 2 dozen large cucumbers
- 6 white onions, chopped fine
- Salt
- White mustard seed
- Celery seed
- Strong vinegar

Instructions:

1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Peel the cucumbers if desired or leave the skin intact for added texture and color.

2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large bowl.

3. Finely chop the white onions and add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.

4. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the cucumbers and onions. This will help draw out excess moisture and enhance the flavors. Toss well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.

5. Allow the cucumbers and onions to sit for approximately 12 hours, allowing the salt to work its magic. During this time, the salt will help extract some of the water from the cucumbers, resulting in a crisper and more flavorful salad.

6. After the salting process, rinse the cucumbers and onions under cold water to remove the excess salt. Drain well to remove any excess water.

7. Sprinkle a handful of white mustard seed and celery seed over the cucumbers and onions, adjusting the quantity to your taste preferences. The mustard and celery seed will add subtle but delightful flavors to the salad.

8. Finally, cover the cucumber and onion mixture with a generous amount of strong vinegar. The vinegar will add a tangy kick and act as a natural preservative, allowing the salad to stay fresh for longer.

9. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the vinegar is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

10. Serve the cucumber salad chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside your favorite main course or as a standalone salad.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoyed this cucumber salad recipe, you may also like to explore other cucumber-based dishes:

1. Tzatziki: A popular Greek dip or sauce made with cucumbers, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs like dill or mint. Tzatziki can be served as a dip with pita bread, as a sauce for grilled meats, or as a refreshing spread on sandwiches.

2. Cucumber Raita: A traditional Indian side dish made with cucumbers, yogurt, and various spices like cumin, coriander, and mint. Cucumber raita is often served with spicy curries or biryanis to provide a cooling contrast to the heat.

3. Cucumber Salsa: A fresh and zesty salsa made with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, lime juice, and cilantro. Cucumber salsa pairs well with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or as a topping for tacos and burritos.

4. Cucumber Gazpacho: A chilled Spanish soup made with cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Cucumber gazpacho is a perfect summer dish, offering a cool and refreshing combination of flavors.

Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and savor the delightful taste of cucumbers in various culinary creations!