A refreshing cucumber salad is a staple at many New York delis, known for its crisp texture and tangy flavor. It’s a perfect side dish for sandwiches, burgers, or even as a light meal on its own. Traditional recipes often call for sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar, but it’s entirely possible to enjoy this delightful salad without adding sugar. Here’s how you can make a delicious and healthy New York deli-style cucumber salad using natural ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 clove of garlic, minced (optional for an extra kick)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. If you prefer a softer salad, you can peel the cucumbers before slicing.
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion. This adds a nice color contrast and a slight bite to the salad.
Make the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic if using. Mix well until all the ingredients are well blended. The lemon juice adds a natural freshness and tanginess to the dressing, eliminating the need for sugar.
Combine and Marinate:
- Add the sliced cucumbers and onions to the dressing. Toss gently to ensure all the slices are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results. This marination process allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly pickle, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
Conclusion:
This sugar-free New York deli cucumber salad is not only easy to make but also wonderfully healthy. The combination of tangy vinegar, fresh dill, and crisp cucumbers creates a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements any meal. Enjoy this classic salad at your next gathering or as a tasty addition to your weekday meals. It’s a simple, flavorful way to add more vegetables to your diet while enjoying the tastes of a New York deli right from your kitchen!
