08/30/07 Food & Wine

Welcome to Vine to wine this is your host Linda Moran. Today is food and wine pairing day and I have to talk about cucumbers and the wines they go well with. Okay so once again your garden or the local farmers market is full of produce, which just is not any better than during the summer. One such item is the cucumber. Although it may not be an item you think of as a focal point to a meal, it can definitely be a major player. Cucumbers at this time of year are never bitter  just refreshing and flavorful. Of course we add them in great quantity to gazpacho. I have a friend who makes white gazpacho and it is primarily cucumbers and sweet onions with lots of fresh herbs. Add grated cucumbers to your slaws. It is delicious and all three are pleasant when paired with Sauvignon Blanc or drier styles of Riesling. If you have never sautéed cucumbers reconsider. Remove the seeds and slice them a bit on the thick side, sauté in a little olive oil salt pepper and ground fennel seeds. Add grated Swiss or Gruyere cheese, a few tablespoons of sour cream and pour it over rice. It is delicious on its own or beside grilled chicken. It will work with a buttery Chardonnay, Rose' or a lighter style of red. So be creative and think of new and fun ways to include those cucumbers while they are at their very best. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at Vine to Wine dot net and thank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.