Summer Winding Down

I know, those words make me want to cry too. I can't believe this weekend we'll be celebrating Labor Day, the official gateway to what I call "boo hoo hoo time" also known as the end of summer. Schools are back in session, nights are cooler, there is a chill in the air each morning. This means fall is on it's way. And while I don't mind autumn-- the food, the smells, the fall festivals--I know it's only a matter of time before that dreaded "s" word makes another annual appearance. Shhhh....don't say it! It might hear you! But luckily here in Indiana we are usually blessed w/ some warm fall days, those Indian Summer ones if you will. So I refuse to end the summer posts quite yet. In my house growing up, this was a summer staple. My dad absolutely loved this salad and when he was growing cucumbers in his garden, mom would make it at least once per week. I love the marinated cucumbers I make, so refreshing and light, but this one holds a special place in my heart too. A little different texture, the addition of the onion and of course, the cream (mom actually made it w/ Miracle Whip and Vinegar), but it is still nice for a hot night, and perfect w/ a meal brought in fresh from the open flame of a grill. Autumn and all of its wonders may be right around the corner, but I'm hanging on to summer w/ all of my might for just a tad longer!

Creamy Cucumber Salad


2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
1 small white onion, thinly sliced
2 tsp salt

Dressing:
1/2 c. heavy cream
2 TBS white vinegar
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

Combine cucumbers, onion and salt. Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour. (I sit mine in a colander in the sink b/c it tends to draw out moisture) Drain well. Combine dressing ingredients. Place cucumber mixture in a large bowl and pour dressing over. Mix well to combine. Chill several hours before serving.

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