yummy summer salad

Enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer all year long with this easy and delicious pickled cucumber salad! Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light side dish, this vibrant salad features crisp cucumbers, crunchy bell peppers, and zesty red onions, all bathed in a sweet and tangy vinegar brine.

Best of all, it can be stored in your fridge for up to two months, making it a convenient and tasty addition to your meals. Dive into this recipe and savor the taste of summer whenever you want!

This is a great yummy summer salad and can stay in your fridge up to 2 months.

Ingredients:

4 thinly sliced cucumbers

1-large sliced red onions

1-large sliced green bell peppers

1-tbsp salt

2-cup white vinegar

1 1/2-cups sugar

1-tsp celery flakes

1-tsp red pepper flakes

Direction: 

Mix cucumbers, onions, peppers and salt; set a side.

Put vinegar, sugar, celery flakes and pepper flakes in a pot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add 2 handfuls of ice until melted.

Place all veggies in large mouth canning jars (2 quarts or 1 half gallon jar)

Pour mixture over cucumbers, store in refrigerator.

Will keep up to 2 months

Makes 2 quart jars

Here are some variations and tips to enhance your summer salad:

Variations:

1. Add Other Vegetables: Consider adding sliced carrots, radishes, or zucchini for extra crunch and color.
2. Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add a nice flavor. Add them before pouring the vinegar mixture.
3. Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Fruity Twist: Incorporate diced fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy element.
5. Alternative Sweeteners: Swap sugar for honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
6. Add Nuts or Seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts can add texture and nutrition.

Tips:

• Cucumber Selection: Use English cucumbers for a milder taste or pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture.
• Salt and Rest: Letting the vegetables sit with salt for at least 30 minutes can draw out moisture, enhancing their crunch.
• Storage: Ensure jars are sterilized for longer shelf life. Keep the salad submerged in the liquid to maintain freshness.
• Serving Suggestions: Use as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side with grilled meats.
• Adjusting Flavor: Taste the brine before pouring; you can adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or vinegar as desired.

Experimenting with these variations can make your salad unique each time you prepare it!

How to Store Your Summer Salad:

1. Jar Selection: Use clean, sterilized glass jars (quart or half-gallon) for best preservation.
2. Submerge Vegetables: Ensure all vegetables are fully submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. If needed, add a weight or additional liquid to keep them submerged.
3. Seal Properly: Use airtight lids to seal the jars tightly. This helps maintain freshness and prevents contamination.
4. Refrigeration: Store the jars in the refrigerator immediately after preparation. Keep them at a consistent, cool temperature.
5. Labeling: Consider labeling jars with the date prepared to keep track of freshness.
6. Check Regularly: Before consuming, check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or mold.

Shelf Life:

• The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it’s best to discard it.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your summer salad for weeks!

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 50-70
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: Varies (depends on salt used)
• Total Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Sugars: 10-12g
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
• Protein: 1g

Key Nutrients:

• Vitamin C: From cucumbers and bell peppers, supporting immune function.
• Vitamin K: Primarily from cucumbers, important for bone health.
• Antioxidants: Found in bell peppers and onions, promoting overall health.

Health Benefits:

1. Hydration: Cucumbers have a high water content, aiding in hydration.
2. Low in Calories: This salad is a light option, making it suitable for weight management.
3. Digestive Health: The fiber content from vegetables supports digestive health.
4. Versatile: Can be paired with various meals, enhancing nutritional value.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for optimal freshness.
• Consume Within 2 Months: For best quality and safety.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
• Use as a topping for sandwiches or tacos.
• Incorporate into a salad bowl for added crunch.

This summer salad is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits!