Garlic Cream Cucumber Salad Upgrade

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €5.13 · €1.28/serving

• 5 mini seedless or Persian cucumbers (about 12 oz.)Est. price €0.90–€1.80
• Kosher saltEst. price €0.02–€0.05
• 3 tsp. sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar, dividedEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 3/4 cup blanched almonds, dividedEst. price €2.50–€4.50
• 1 garlic clove, finely gratedEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €1.50–€3.00
• Flaky sea saltEst. price €0.03–€0.08

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F. Slice the cucumbers diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces and transfer them to a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle a generous pinch of kosher salt and add 2 teaspoons of vinegar to the cucumbers, then mix everything together until well combined. Allow the cucumbers to marinate for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully discard any liquid that has been released during marination.

2. 2

   On a rimmed baking sheet, spread out 1/4 cup of almonds evenly. Toast them in the oven, tossing them once during the process, until they turn a golden hue, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Allow the toasted almonds to cool down before roughly chopping them into smaller pieces. Keep the chopped almonds aside for later use.

3. 3

   In a blender, combine garlic, oil, the remaining teaspoon of vinegar, the rest of the almonds (1/2 cup), and half a cup of ice water. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, which should take around 2 minutes. Remember to season generously with salt before serving.

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• Cultural note

  Cucumber salads are popular across various cuisines, with variations found in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian culinary traditions. The use of garlic and olive oil in this recipe reflects influences from Mediterranean cooking, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple yet flavorful dishes.

• Seasonal note

  Cucumbers are in season during the summer months, making this salad a refreshing and cooling option for hot weather. Almonds are typically harvested in the fall, so incorporating them into this dish in late summer or early fall ensures freshness.

• Health note

  This Garlic Cream Cucumber Salad Upgrade is a nutritious dish packed with fiber, healthy fats from olive oil and almonds, and vitamin C from the cucumbers. The almonds provide protein and zinc, while the garlic offers additional health benefits such as immune support and anti-inflammatory properties.