| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 95 | 0.3g | 0g | 23g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 17g | 2g | 2g | 0.2g |
A Salad Close To My Heart
The first time I feasted my senses on the Water-Pepper and Cucumber Salad, it was an instant hit. This recipe is more than just an infusion of flavors — it’s a journey through the gardens of my pirate ship, picking fresh cucumbers under the Montana skies.
Infused with the zesty taste of water-pepper leaves, this salad brings to the table a bit of my love for novel flavors. To me, this dish represents a fusion of elements from the ranch life I know and love, blended with traces of those exciting new tastes I’m always out to discover.
The Healing Power of Food
Beyond the flavors, this Water-Pepper and Cucumber Salad carries its own host of health rewards. A salad may seem simple, but within its crisp layers hides a bounty of wellness. Cucumbers, filled with key nutrients and hydrating benefits, dovetail splendidly with the fresh fruits like apples, grapes and oranges in this dish, bringing forth a rush of revitalizing antioxidants and fiber. The water-pepper leaves, a less known superfood, add a spicy kick and a good dose of vitamins A and C. Garnished with the freshness of mint leaves, it’s a treat both for your palate and your body.
You can read more about the benefits of cucumbers here and water-pepper, a unique salad addition, here.
Culinary Companions
As for pairings, this vibrant salad beautifully complements a range of dishes. Think of a well-grilled Bison burger or a hearty steak of venison. It could even serve as a refreshing side to a slice of sweet huckleberry pie. No matter what you choose, this Water-Pepper and Cucumber Salad promises to underscore your main course with a burst of freshness and flavor.
So, why do I love this recipe? Because it’s a tribute to my roots, an adventure of new tastes, and an ode to the healing power of food. And because, sometimes, there’s no greater joy than crunching on that perfectly chilled cucumber on a warm Montana afternoon.
What You’ll Need
- 3 medium cucumbers
- 1/4 cup of fresh water-pepper leaves
- 2 cups of mixed fresh fruit (apples, grapes, orange,etc.)
- 1/4 cup of white vinegar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
First, wash your fruits and vegetables properly. Peel the cucumbers and cut them into thin slices. Cut the fresh fruits into bite-sized pieces.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped fruits and fresh water-pepper leaves.
Step Three
In a small pot, combine white vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool.
Step Four
Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumber, fruit, and water-pepper in the bowl. Toss to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
Step Five
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
Step Six
Optionally, garnish the salad with fresh mint leaves before serving to add an extra burst of freshness. Enjoy your Water-Pepper and Cucumber Salad!
