| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 64 | 5g | 1g | 6g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 1g | 1g | 0.19g |
One word to truly capture my adoration for the Armenian Cucumber and Onion Salad might rob the English language of its depth and richness. This dish, so simple in its ingredients, is a symphony of flavors that echoes the unapologetic freshness of each component, while harmonizing them into a melody that carries the story of my culinary journey with it. Delectably fresh, vibrantly crunchy, and delightfully zingy, this salad truly encapsulates my love for venturing beyond my comfort zone – from the Atlantic coast to the enchanting land of Armenia.
You Taste What You See
What I love most about this Armenian Cucumber and Onion Salad is its breathtaking honesty. Each ingredient stays true to its form and flavor, visually unobscured. You see cucumber, onion, and herbs, not hiding or masquerading as something else. It’s straightforward, with no culinary deception. This, to me, isn’t just a recipe but a lesson in authenticity – the core of my food philosophy.
Health Is Wealth
The benefits of this colorful palate are not contained merely within the sphere of the senses. This recipe is a wellspring of health benefits. Cucumbers, brimming with hydration and essential nutrients, join forces with onions known for their rich antioxidant properties. Combine these with the healthy fats in olive oil, acetic properties of apple cider vinegar, and the freshness of lemon juice – this salad is a veritable cornucopia of wellness.
For an in-depth look into some of their health benefits, click here and here.
Dishes similar to this refreshingly crisp salad are the Greek Tzatziki and the Turkish cacik, both cucumber-based recipes that are commonly paired with warm, grilled meats and fresh breads. The zesty salad pairs incredibly well with grilled fish or chicken, or as an accompaniment to a hearty pot of New England Clam Chowder, one of my favorite hometown classics.
Where the cool ocean breeze meets the warm, exotic allure of Armenian cuisine – that’s where you’ll find my love for the Armenian Cucumber and Onion Salad, an epitome of culinary fusion at its very best.
What You’ll Need
- 3 medium Armenian cucumbers
- 1 medium red onion
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the vegetables. Wash the Armenian cucumbers adequately under clean running water. Then, proceed to slice the cucumbers into thin slices. Set them aside for later use.
Step Two
Peel the red onion and cut it into thin slices. Ensure the slices are as thin as possible for them to absorb the dressing adequately and also to add to the overall texture of the salad. Once done slicing, set the onion slices aside.
Step Three
Take the fresh parsley leaves and chop them finely. The chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color to the salad but also introduces a fresh herby flavor. Once done chopping, set the parsley aside.
Step Four
Proceed to prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a homogenous mixture. The resulting dressing should be tangy, sweet, and lightly seasoned.
Step Five
Now, bring all the components together. In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, sliced red onions, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Ensure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad for a balanced flavor in every bite.
Step Six
Let the salad sit for about 15-30 minutes before serving, to allow all the flavors to meld together. This also allows the cucumbers and onions to slightly soften in the dressing, enhancing their taste and texture. Serve the Armenian Cucumber and Onion Salad chilled for a refreshing side dish or meal.
