Cucumbers are high in vitamins, nutrients, and valuable minerals that our bodies need. This cool and refreshing salad, can help you stay hydrated this Spring and Summer while providing your body with antioxidants. It is absolutely yummy and refreshing!
The History of the Recipe:
My grandmother uses to make this often in the Spring and Summer. It was one of my favorite side dishes and when she passed away a few years back after 10+ years of suffering from Alzheimer’s it took me years to perfect it. I am so happy I finally perfected it.
It can be very filling due to the water that is in the cucumbers, however, I can just sit there and keep eating it since it is my absolute favorite. I know it will be yours too!
Nutritional Benefits of Cucumbers:
1. It's High in Nutrients
One 11-ounce (300-gram) unpeeled, raw cucumber contains the following (Source):
- Calories: 45
- Total fat: 0 grams
- Carbs: 11 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Vitamin C: 14% of the RDI
- Vitamin K: 62% of the RDI
- Magnesium: 10% of the RDI
- Potassium: 13% of the RDI
- Manganese: 12% of the RDI
Although, the typical serving size is about one-third of a cucumber, so eating a standard portion would provide about one-third of the nutrients above.
Additionally, cucumbers have high water content. To maximize their nutrient content, cucumbers should be eaten unpeeled. Peeling them reduces the amount of fiber, as well as certain vitamins and minerals
2. It Contains Antioxidants
Antioxidants are molecules that block oxidation, a chemical reaction that forms highly reactive atoms with unpaired electrons known as free radicals.
Fruits and vegetables, including cucumbers, are especially rich in beneficial antioxidants that may reduce the risk of many chronic conditions.
3. It Promotes Hydration
Fruits and vegetables, in particular, can be a good source of water in your diet.
Because cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, they are especially effective at promoting hydration and can help you meet your daily fluid needs (Source).
4. It May Aid in Weight Loss
Cucumbers are low in calories, high in water, and can be used as a low-calorie topping for many dishes. All of these may aid in weight loss.
5. It May Lower Blood Sugar
6. It Could Promote Regularity
Cucumbers contain a good amount of fiber and water, both of which may help prevent constipation and increase regularity.
7. Easy to Add to Your Diet
Mild with a distinctly crisp and refreshing flavor, cucumbers are commonly enjoyed fresh or pickled in everything from salads to sandwiches.
Cucumbers are also often eaten raw as a low-calorie snack or can be paired with hummus, olive oil, salt, cream cheese, or salad dressing to add a bit more flavor.
The tools used for this recipe:
Grandma's Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 4 Large Cucumber
- 1 Onion
- 1 tbsp Dried Dill
- 1 c Sugar
- ½ c White Vinegar
- ½ c Water
Instructions
- In a larger serving bowl, combine thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and dill.
- Add sugar, vinegar, and water. (You can add salt if needed)
- Stir till the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Refrigerate for at least 2-hours before serving.
Notes
How long will the cucumber salad stay fresh for once prepared?
For cookouts, I often double the recipe because some people can not get enough of it. Plus it is always better to have too much of something than not enough. (This was the saying my grandmother always said). When my grandmother cooked there were always leftovers which are always great to take for lunch during the week.
Grandma’s Cucumber salad once prepared will only last up to 3 days in the fridge before it starts to turn. So eat up and enjoy!
I hope you enjoy and please let me know what you think down below in the comments.
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