Sour Cream Cucumbers Recipe: A Low-Point Weight Watchers Delight

Welcome to our detailed guide on making a classic Hungarian dish with a modern Weight Watchers twist: Sour Cream Cucumbers. This refreshing and tangy side dish is perfect for those following a Weight Watchers plan, providing a delightful crunch and creamy flavor while keeping the points low. Dive into our extensive recipe to learn every detail about making this traditional dish with a WW-friendly update.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream: Use reduced-fat sour cream to lower the calorie and fat content while retaining the creamy texture.
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to balance the creaminess of the sour cream.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated erythritol: A keto-friendly sweetener to substitute traditional sugar and keep the points low.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Salad:
  • 4 medium cucumbers: Peeled and sliced thinly, providing a crisp and refreshing base.
  • 1 small sweet onion: Thinly sliced and separated into rings, adding a mild sweetness and crunch.

Detailed Instructions

1. Preparing the Cucumbers and Onion:

1.1. Start by peeling 4 medium cucumbers. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, which helps reduce the bitterness of the cucumbers and ensures a more tender bite.

1.2. Slice the cucumbers thinly, aiming for uniform slices about 1/8 inch thick. This consistency helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing evenly and ensures a pleasant texture.

1.3. Place the sliced cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.

1.4. Take 1 small sweet onion and slice it thinly. Separate the slices into individual rings. This will ensure that the onion distributes evenly throughout the salad, adding flavor in every bite.

1.5. Add the sliced onions to the bowl with cucumbers.

2. Making the Dressing:

2.1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream and 3 tablespoons white vinegar. The sour cream provides creaminess, while the vinegar adds a necessary tanginess to the dressing.

2.2. Whisk the sour cream and vinegar together until fully combined and smooth.

2.3. Add 1 tablespoon granulated erythritol to the mixture. This low-carb sweetener substitutes traditional sugar, adding sweetness without increasing the Weight Watchers points.

2.4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference.

2.5. Whisk the dressing again to ensure that the sweetener and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout.

3. Combining and Chilling:

3.1. Pour the prepared dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions in the mixing bowl.

3.2. Gently toss the cucumbers and onions with the dressing until all the slices are evenly coated. Make sure that each cucumber and onion slice is well-covered with the creamy dressing.

3.3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the cucumbers absorb the dressing.

4. Serving:

4.1. After the chilling period, give the cucumbers and onions another gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.

4.2. Serve the sour cream cucumbers cold. They make a refreshing side dish or can be enjoyed as a light snack.

4.3. For an added touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Each serving of Sour Cream Cucumbers contains:

  • Calories: 65
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 2g

Weight Watchers Points

For Weight Watchers, each serving of Sour Cream Cucumbers is approximately 2 SmartPoints. This low point value makes it an excellent choice for those following the WW plan, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful side dish without compromising your daily points.

Additional Tips and Information

  1. Ingredient Substitutions: If you prefer, you can use non-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for an even lower fat content. Greek yogurt will also add a slight tanginess to the dressing.
  2. Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can adjust the amount of erythritol to your liking. Always taste the dressing before combining it with the cucumbers to ensure it meets your preference.
  3. Storage: The Sour Cream Cucumbers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may continue to develop as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep.
  4. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with grilled meats, as a side for a sandwich, or even as a topping for a fresh salad. It adds a creamy, tangy element to any meal.
  5. Texture and Freshness: For the best texture and freshness, try to use the cucumbers within a few days of preparation. Cucumbers tend to release water over time, which can make the salad slightly more watery if stored for too long.
  6. Flavor Variations: Consider adding herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the dressing for additional flavor. Fresh herbs complement the tangy sour cream and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

By following this detailed recipe and incorporating our tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a classic Hungarian dish with a Weight Watchers-friendly twist. Sour Cream Cucumbers are a simple yet flavorful addition to your meal plan, providing a refreshing and low-point option that’s sure to satisfy.