I’m a bad blog mommy. As soon as things get hectic, I drop the blog baby and tend to the others, who are more likely to kick and scream. I’m sorry, baby. But there’s just a lot going on right now. Henning is back from Germany and I’m leading some younger graduate students in a qualifying exam prep session and I’m still trying to write a thesis. I’m cooking easy, tasty dishes that can be whipped up in an instant. I’ve got one of my favorites to share with you.
Yeah, I know. Just some cucumbers? Yes, and no. This simple cucumber salad is a favorite summertime snack of mine, even more so this summer since I’m growing cucumbers in my garden. The difference between storebought and homegrown veggies is really quite amazing. I mean, I always knew this somehow, but this summer has really shown me. The difference between zucchini picked fresh from my garden and even that bought at the farmer’s market is tremendous. But I digress.
This simple salad is nothing more than slices of cucumber, a splash of mild vinegar, and a pinch each of salt and sugar. It’s simple, cooling, refreshing, and delicious, especially with homegrown cucumbers.
Simple Cucumber Salad
one medium cucumber, peeled and seeded if you like
a splash of mild vinegar, such as white wine or rice wine
a pinch of sugar
a pinch of salt
Slice the cucumber thinly (I use a mandoline-like plastic and ceramic slicer). Toss with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
Serves 1-2.
maiapapaya 
9 Comments
I love the smell of cucumbers! You have a nice blog here!
This is one of the first things I learned to “cook” from my grandmother and I make it every summer.
Blog babies recover from dropping. At least you didn’t throw it out with the bathwater ;)
though you’re in california, this is the definition of summer in the south.
This is something my grandmother used to make. She would sprinkle the salt on the cucumber slices first to make them render their juices, then add red wine or rice vinegar and sugar to taste. She always put a couple of ice cubes in the bowl to keep it chilled. This, along with some sliced tomatoes and roast chicken was a standard meal in my grandparents’ house – she was a really good cook.
Are you part Slovak? Sprinkle a hint of paprika at the end and it’s traditional Slovak cucumber salad.
So are you coming back?
Alice- gah, I know. I’m so slacking! I have so much going on right now, it’s crazy. I am going to try to start posting again, but I’m not sure how regular it will be. Sometimes life gets in the way!
I’m missing summer with this gorgeous cucumber salad….
I wish to say that this post is awesome, nice written and include almost all important info’s. I’d like to see more posts like this.