Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a dish that's as refreshing as it is tantalizing? Say hello to "Sweet and Sour Cukes"—a vibrant Asian-inspired recipe that transforms ordinary cucumbers into a flavorful sensation! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 10 minutes of your time, you can whip up a delightful side dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a zesty accompaniment to any meal, this quick and easy recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into the world of sweet and tangy flavors, and discover how to make this irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick. For best results, use a mandoline slicer if available.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Add the sliced cucumbers to the vinegar mixture, gently stirring to ensure all cucumber slices are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate the cucumber mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to marinate. For best results, let sit for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Before serving, give the cucumbers a quick stir and transfer to a serving dish. The pickled cucumbers can be served chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cucumbers: For the best flavor and crunch, select firm cucumbers that are free from blemishes. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Slice Evenly: Aim for uniform slices, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even marination. If you have a mandoline slicer, it can help achieve perfect slices effortlessly.
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum marinating time, letting the cucumbers sit in the vinegar mixture for 1-2 hours will intensify the sweet and sour flavors.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your Sweet and Sour Cukes by adding thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Chilled: These pickled cucumbers are best served cold, making them a refreshing option for hot days. Keep them in the fridge until you're ready to serve!
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but be warned—they may disappear quickly!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 30kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
