Ingredients

14 tomatoes ( tomatoes on the vine or plum tomatoes )
10 small cucumbers
1 long pepper or 3 pepperoncini peppers
4 garlic cloves , whole peeled
2 bay leaves
4 black peppercorns
2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1 bunch dried dill weed
1 tablespoon celery leaves
4 cups water
4 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons white vinegar
Russian Tomatoes and Gherkins is a classic summer side dish that originated in Eastern Europe. This salad showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of fresh, seasonal produce. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy brine is a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. While this recipe is traditionally made with whole baby cucumbers, you can also use sliced cucumbers for a more salad-like presentation. The addition of garlic, dill weed, and coriander seeds provides a subtle depth of flavor to the dish. Overall, this salad is a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and create a flavorful and colorful meal.

Instructions

1.Rinse the tomatoes and cucumbers and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
2.Cut the pepper into thin rounds or chop the pepperoncini peppers.
3.Use a mortar and pestle to crush the garlic cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, dill weed, and celery leaves.
4.In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetables and spices.
5.In a separate bowl, mix the water, kosher salt, sugar, and white vinegar until the salt and sugar dissolve.
6.Pour the brine over the bowl of vegetables and mix gently until the vegetables are evenly coated.
7.Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
8.Drain excess brine before serving if desired.

PROS

A refreshing and tangy side dish that pairs well with grilled or roasted meats.
Contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.

CONS

May not be suitable for those with sodium restrictions due to the high salt content in the brine.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Cucumbers are also high in vitamin C, as well as vitamin K and potassium. Both vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber.

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