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Baked Cucumbers
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Baked cucumbers, layered with butter and dill, make an easy yet elegant side dish that brings a fresh twist to routine vegetables.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
1 review
ingredients
4 large cucumbers, peeled, and quartered length wise
2 tablespoons butter, cut into bits
1 teaspoon dried dill seed, crushed
1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
water
directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place a layer of half of the cucumbers in the bottom of a baking dish. Dot the cucumbers with half of the butter, sprinkle with half of the crushed dill, half of the black pepper, and half of the salt. Repeat the layering.
Add just enough water to just cover the cucumbers half-way.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered at 400 degrees F for one hour.
Remove the baked cucumbers from the oven. Serve with a slotted spoon.
recipe tips
Choose firm cucumbers without blemishes or soft spots.
Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to taste.
For a deeper flavor, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the cucumbers before baking.
Try different herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for variety.
common recipe questions
What type of cucumbers should I use for this recipe?
Any type of cucumber can be used, but English cucumbers are recommended for their thin skin and minimal seeds. You can also scrape out some of the seeds if using regular cucumbers (don't scoop out too much).
Can I leave the peel on the cucumbers?
You can leave the peel on if you prefer, but peeling them will result in a softer texture.
Why do I need to add water in the baking dish?
Adding water helps to create steam in the oven, keeping the cucumbers moist as they bake.
Can I use fresh dill instead of dried dill seed?
Yes, fresh dill can be substituted for dried dill seed for a more intense flavor. Use 1 tablespoon fresh dill in place of 1 teaspoon of dried dill.
What other seasonings can I add to the dish?
You can vary the seasonings by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
How can I prevent the cucumbers from becoming too watery?
After peeling and quartering the cucumbers, you can salt them and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat them dry before layering in the baking dish.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
You can add sliced onions, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
How can I make this dish more savory?
Try sprinkling grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the cucumbers during the last few minutes of baking for a savory twist.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it up to a day ahead of time (store covered in the refrigerator) and bake it when ready to serve. Hold off adding the water until right before you bake it as the cucumbers may give off liquid while they chill.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
tools needed
Baking Dish: For baking the cucumbers in the oven. Make sure to choose a dish large enough to fit all the cucumber quarters in a single layer.
Measuring Spoons: To measure out the salt, black pepper, and dill seed.
Knife: To peel and quarter the cucumbers before baking and to cut the butter into bits.
Cutting Board: To safely cut and prepare the cucumbers without damaging your countertop.
Oven: In order to bake the cucumbers at 400 degrees F. Make sure the oven is preheated before placing the baking dish inside.
Slotted Spoon: To serve the baked cucumbers without excess liquid.
what goes with it?
Grilled Chicken Breast: serve these baked cucumbers alongside a juicy grilled chicken breast for a light meal.
Lemon Rice: enjoy these baked cucumbers with a side of lemon-infused rice for a zesty and tangy combination.
Garlic Shrimp: pair these baked cucumbers with garlic shrimp. The mild sweetness of the cucumbers will complement the bold flavors of the garlic shrimp.
Roasted Pork Loin: serve these baked cucumbers alongside a tender roasted pork loin. The savory flavors of the pork will pair beautifully with the buttery dill cucumbers.
nutrition data
61 calories, 4 grams fat, 6 grams carbohydrates, 1 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
May 24, 2010
This recipe sounds so strange, but the end result was very good. It's a light and refreshing side dish. The dill flavor was strong but not too strong. We didn't do all the strange layering described in the directions, however. Cucumber is very watery to begin with and cooking it in layers seems like it would hold more water in the pan so we spread it out in a single layer in a larger pan.