**Cucumber: A Culinary Delight, Fresh or Frozen**
Cucumbers, with their refreshing taste and versatility, are a culinary delight that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you prefer them fresh or frozen, cucumbers offer a range of culinary possibilities. From crisp salads and sandwiches to refreshing beverages and soothing skincare treatments, cucumbers add a touch of coolness and hydration to any dish or routine. Discover the art of preserving cucumbers through freezing, along with a collection of delectable recipes that showcase their unique flavor and texture. Explore fresh cucumber salads, zesty frozen cucumber salsa, and invigorating cucumber-infused beverages. Delve into the world of cucumber-based skincare and discover the rejuvenating benefits of cucumber masks and toners. With this comprehensive guide, you'll learn how to make the most of cucumbers, whether fresh from the garden or conveniently frozen for future enjoyment.
FROZEN CUCUMBERS
This is a great way to use up the end of the garden, over-sized cucumbers. I started making these a couple of years ago and my family and friends love these. It is so nice to have fresh tasting cucumber salad in the middle of winter!
Provided by Sheila Kremer
Categories Vegetables
Time 3h
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- 1. Slice cucumbers and onions into large bowl and mix. I use my mandolin and the thin slice blade to slice the cucumbers and onions. You do not need to peel the cucumbers first. I use my 13 quart stainless steel bowl to make this. Sprinkle with salt. Pour enough water over cucumbers and onions to just cover. I use nursery water, found in the baby food section for all of my canning as our water is too soft. Let set 2 hours. Drain in colander, but do not rinse. Put cucumbers and onions back in bowl.
- 2. Mix sugar and white vinegar and pour over cucumber - onion mixture. Stir and let set about 15 minutes. Put in freezer bags or containers and freeze. I usually put about 3 1/2 cups of the mixture into each quart bag. This recipe will make 10 quart bags. To use, thaw bag in refrigerator, pour into bowl and serve. Refrigerate leftovers. These stay crisp and taste just like fresh cucumber salad!
FROZEN CUCUMBER SALAD
Here's a delicious way to enjoy garden-fresh cucumbers year-round. I got this recipe from a friend and made good use of it one year after my husband harvested a very large crop. Just defrost...and enjoy the crispy texture!
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch Side Dishes
Time 20m
Yield 1-1/2 quarts.
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Combine cucumbers, onions and salt. Let mixture soak for 3 hours. In a saucepan, warm the vinegar and sugar; stir to dissolve sugar. Drain cucumbers and add to vinegar mixture. Ladle into plastic freezer containers and freeze. When ready to use, defrost and serve chilled.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 100 calories, Fat 0 fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 593mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (22g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 1g protein.
Tips:
- Choose fresh, firm cucumbers for freezing. Cucumbers that are starting to go bad will not freeze well.
- Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly before freezing. This will help to prevent freezer burn.
- Cut the cucumbers into the desired size and shape before freezing. This will make it easier to use them later.
- Place the cucumber pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. This will help to prevent them from sticking together.
- Transfer the frozen cucumber pieces to a freezer bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 1 year.
- When you are ready to use the frozen cucumbers, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also use them frozen in smoothies or soups.
Conclusion:
Freezing cucumbers is a great way to preserve them for later use. Frozen cucumbers can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and smoothies. They are also a healthy and refreshing snack. By following the tips above, you can easily freeze cucumbers and enjoy them all year long.
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