If there’s one salad that sings the praises of simplicity with such flavorful elegance, it’s the classic Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad). With its light and creamy dressing, flecked with fresh herbs, this dish delights with every refreshing bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tradition Meets Simplicity: This dish captures the essence of Polish culinary tradition with just a few basic ingredients.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of cucumbers and creamy dressing is a match made in flavor heaven.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes, you can prepare a wonderfully satisfying side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Mizeria is all about the balance of simple, fresh ingredients that together create magic. Each component is essential, bringing its unique taste and texture to the table.
- 2 cucumbers: These form the refreshing base of the salad, ideally thinly sliced for the best texture.
- Salt: Used to enhance flavor and draw out the cucumber’s moisture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Offers a creamy richness that marries the salad’s flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: Its tangy bite adds a perfect contrast to the creamy and fresh flavors.
- 1 tablespoon finely cut chives or green onions: Introduces a mild oniony sharpness to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon finely cut fresh dill: Brings a burst of herby freshness that’s quintessentially Polish.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity and complements the cucumbers.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Further enhances the flavor, tying everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that awakens the palate.
Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these simple variations to suit your tastes or dietary requirements.
- Yogurt Substitute: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Herb Additions: Consider adding mint or basil for an aromatic twist.
How to Make Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad)
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
If using ordinary cucumbers, peel and slice them lengthwise, then remove the seeds. Aim for the thinnest slices possible, ideally about 1/8 inch. For thin-skinned or hot house cucumbers, simply slice them as they are.
Step 2: Salt and Rest
Spread out the slices and generously sprinkle them with salt. Let them rest for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a bowl, combine sour cream, vinegar, chives, dill, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smoothly mixed, then chill until ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad)
- Slice Finely: Ensure your cucumbers are sliced as thin as possible to absorb maximum flavor.
- Salting Magic: Allow time for salting to release water, intensifying the cucumber’s taste.
- Herb Choices: Use fresh dill and chives for the most vibrant flavor, dried herbs will not offer the same punch.
- Chill for Perfection: Serving this salad cold enhances its refreshing quality.
How to Serve Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad)
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra dill or a few slivers of freshly chopped chives can add vibrant color and infuse the salad with additional herbal notes.
Side Dishes
Mizeria pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially pork or chicken, and adds a delightful freshness to hearty main dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer cucumber slices vertically in a clear glass for an elegant mess-free presentation at formal dinners or display them on a large white platter for a rustic family gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any Mizeria leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will remain delicious for up to two days.
Freezing
Freezing Mizeria is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the cucumbers, making them less crunchy and refreshing.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold, so there is no need for reheating. Simply give it a good stir post-refrigeration before serving.
FAQs
-
Can I use low-fat sour cream for Mizeria?
Yes, low-fat sour cream can be used for a lighter version without compromising the overall flavor of the salad.
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Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is recommended for regular cucumbers due to their thicker skin, but thin-skinned varieties can be sliced with the skin on.
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What can I use instead of vinegar?
Lemon juice is a suitable substitute, offering a citrusy brightness that complements the salad perfectly.
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How can I make Mizeria vegan?
Swap out sour cream for a plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternative, ensuring it’s unsweetened for best results.
Final Thoughts
Invite the fresh flavors of Poland into your home with Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad). Easy to prepare and even easier to love, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy making it – and even more, enjoy sharing it!
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Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Polish
Description
Mizeria is a refreshing Polish cucumber salad that highlights the crispness of fresh cucumbers combined with a tangy, creamy dressing infused with herbs. Perfect as a side dish, it offers a light and flavorful addition to any meal, especially during warm weather.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
Dressing and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for the dressing)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumbers: For ordinary cucumbers, peel, slice lengthwise, and remove the seeds. For hot house cucumbers, just slice thinly without peeling. Slice the cucumbers as thin as possible, no more than 1/8 inch.
- Sprinkle with salt: Spread out the cucumber slices and sprinkle generously with salt to draw out moisture. Let sit for 20 minutes.
- Pat dry: After 20 minutes, pat and press the cucumber slices with a paper towel to remove excess water.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, combine sour cream, vinegar, chopped chives, dill, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Combine and chill: Toss the drained cucumbers with the dressing until evenly coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use very thinly sliced cucumbers for the best texture and presentation.
- Adjust the salt after draining the cucumbers, as they will have released some moisture.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be prepared ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 2 grams
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
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