Cucumber Mint Mousse

Cucumber Mint Mousse

Serves 6

Ingredients:
Cucumber
Salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
3 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1 cup cold water
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 slices onion, cut coarsely
1/3 cup parsley leaves (no stems)
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
2 tablespoons coarsely cut fresh mint leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
Thin cucumber slices, for garnish

Directions:
1. Sprinkle the cucumber lightly with salt and sugar and let stand 20 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and vinegar. Stir over low heat until dissolved. Add 1 teaspoon salt and the mint leaves.
3. Drain the cucumber and puree in a blender with the onion and parsley. Pour in the gelatin and blend a few seconds until smooth; tiny green flecks should still show.
4. Refrigerate until thick but not set, about 30 minutes. Beat in the sour cream and mayonnaise. Season with Tabasco and a little more salt if needed.
5. Pour into a 1-quart mold, cover and chill until set, 2-4 hours.
6. Unmold onto a chilled plate and garnish with cucumber slices and mint sprigs.