Elevate Your Salads with Zankou Cucumber Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
What To Know
- This salad is light, refreshing, and flavorful, and it is a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day.
- Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer.
- Onions are a good source of vitamins C, B6, and potassium, as well as quercetin, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Zankou Cucumber Salad is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is often served as an appetizer or side dish. It is made with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a simple dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. This salad is light, refreshing, and flavorful, and it is a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day.
Ingredients
- 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomato, onion, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe cucumbers.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley or mint, you can use dried herbs instead.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice and olive oil to taste.
- This salad is also delicious with feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese.
Variations
- Spicy Zankou Cucumber Salad: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Zankou Cucumber Salad with Sumac: Add 1/4 teaspoon of sumac to the dressing.
- Zankou Cucumber Salad with Pomegranate Seeds: Add 1/4 cup of pomegranate seeds to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Zankou Cucumber Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It is a great appetizer or side dish for grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It can also be served as a light lunch or dinner.
Health Benefits
Zankou Cucumber Salad is a healthy and refreshing dish that is packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins K, C, and B6, as well as potassium and magnesium. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer. Onions are a good source of vitamins C, B6, and potassium, as well as quercetin, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Wrap-Up
Zankou Cucumber Salad is a delicious, refreshing, and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your taste. So next time you are looking for a light and flavorful summer salad, give Zankou Cucumber Salad a try.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the best way to slice the cucumbers for this salad?
A: For the best flavor and texture, thinly slice the cucumbers using a sharp knife.
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to this salad, such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery.
Q: How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: This salad will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.