Armenian Cucumber Salad

Armenian cucumbers, known for their mild flavor and versatility, are a great foundation for just about any cucumber dish, especially cucumber salads. This particular Armenian cucumber salad with mint specifically focuses on the that type of cucumber, but you could make this just as easily with other types as well, especially the English variety. It is a basic and refreshing salad that pairs well with many different dishes.

Using Armenian Cucumbers for Salad

Armenian cucumbers, are known for being a long, skinny cucumber, with a  thin skin and mild flavor. They are crispy and have very few seeds, so they work nicely in salads. They also have a faintly melon smell.   You can see more of their history here. 

English cucumbers ae quite similar and are a good substitute, especially since those are often easier to find in some areas (especially in the US).  

About the Salad Recipe 

In the below recipe, the cucumbers provide a crisp base, while a vinaigrette adds zest and depth with mint adding a unique flavor. The recipe works well both as a standalone dish or as a starter or accompaniment. It also works well as part of a buffet or even as a main entrée.  feel free to add protien to it such as meat, tofu, or a meat substitute.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Below are some suggested pairing and serving suggestions for this Armenian cucumber salad recipe. 

1. Grilled Meats: The crispness and acidity of this salad cuts through the richness of grilled meats like steak, lamb, or chicken quite well. It is particularly complementary to barbecue and kebab dishes, where the charred flavor of the meat is balanced by the salad’s freshness.
2. Seafood: Pair the salad with grilled or baked fish. The lemon or vinegar in the dressing, along with the freshness of the cucumbers, enhance flavors of the seafood.
3. Mediterranean Cuisine: The salad naturally complements Mediterranean dishes. Serve it alongside hummus, pita bread, falafel, or stuffed grape leaves for a cohesive regional meal.
4. Picnics and Outdoor Events: The resistance of cucumbers to wilting and their refreshing taste makes this salad a perfect choice for picnics, outdoor gatherings, or potlucks.
5. Wine Pairing: Pair the salad with a glass of crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Rosé. The acidity and fruitiness of these wines complement the tangy and fresh flavors of the salad.

More Cucumber Recipes

Looking for some more cucumber recipes? Give these recipes a try:

Cucumber Watermelon Agua Fresca

Spicy Cucumber Salad, aka Oi Muchim

Below is the recipe! Enjoy!

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Armenian Cucumber Salad

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

This Armenian Cucumber Salad is a basic, fresh, and crisp salad that pairs well with a variety of dishes, or can be served alone as low calorie main dish. This is also a vegan recipe. Feel free to substitute other kinds of cucumbers. English Cucumber work particularly well as a substitute.

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Ingredients

• 6-8 Armenian cucumbers
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, minced

Instructions

1. Prep the Cucumbers: Begin by thinly slicing the cucumbers with a standard knife or a mandolin for uniformity.
2. Mix with Salt: Once sliced, place the cucumbers in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and mix. Transfer the salted cucumbers into a colander and allow them to sit for 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out moisture, ensuring that the salad maintains a crisp texture.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: As the cucumbers are draining, prepare the vinaigrette. In a separate bowl, combine the vinegar or lemon juice with black pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil, ensuring the mixture emulsifies into a coherent dressing. This vinaigrette will coat the cucumbers, providing a tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile.
4. Drain : After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them to a bowl lined with paper towels. This step is crucial to remove any excess moisture.
5. and Assemble the Salad: Place the cucumbers into the bowl containing the vinaigrette. Toss the cucumbers until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Finally, mix in the fresh mint.
6. Serve: Once mixed, the salad is ready to be served. It can be plated on individual small plates or in a single large bowl for communal sharing.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 93Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 591mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 2gSugar: 7gProtein: 3g

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Last Updated on May 14, 2024 by Carleen