Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, simple dish made from fresh cucumbers and a light, tangy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for summer barbecues, picnics, or just a light and healthy snack. With its crisp texture and zesty flavors, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Love Cucumber Salad

Light and Refreshing: Crisp cucumbers paired with a tangy dressing make for a refreshing dish.
Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients and ready in just minutes.
Healthy and Low-Calorie: Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making this salad a healthy option.

Key Ingredients

To make a simple and flavorful cucumber salad, you’ll need:

For the Salad:

Cucumbers: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers or regular).
Red Onion: ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional for added flavor).
Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped.
Salt: ½ teaspoon (for drawing out moisture).

For the Dressing:

White Vinegar: ¼ cup (or apple cider vinegar for a milder taste).
Sugar: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste).
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
Salt: ½ teaspoon.
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (freshly ground).
Garlic: 1 clove, minced (optional for extra flavor).

Optional Add-Ins:

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for extra color and flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled for a creamy texture.
Cucumber Variations: Use a mix of cucumbers like Persian cucumbers for variety.

How to Make Cucumber Salad

1. Prepare the Cucumbers

Slice the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onions using a sharp knife or mandolin for uniform thickness.
Salt the Cucumbers: In a large bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers with ½ teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then drain and pat dry.

2. Make the Dressing

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic (if using) until well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad

Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onions, and chopped dill. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat the cucumbers evenly.

4. Chill and Serve

Chill the Salad: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve: Serve the cucumber salad cold, garnished with extra dill or feta cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

Thinly Slice the Cucumbers: Thin slices absorb the dressing better and provide the perfect texture.
Salting the Cucumbers: This step helps to remove excess moisture from the cucumbers, keeping the salad from becoming watery.
Chill for Better Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for a bit enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.

Variations of Cucumber Salad

1. Creamy

Add ¼ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy version of cucumber salad.

2. Asian-Inspired

Swap the vinegar with rice vinegar and add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian twist.

3. Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Health Benefits

Low in Calories: Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making this salad a great option for a light snack or side dish.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cucumbers contain antioxidants that help protect against cell damage and inflammation.
High in Hydration: Made up of 95% water, cucumbers help you stay hydrated, especially in hot weather.

FAQs

How long does cucumber salad last in the fridge?

Cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may become slightly softer over time, but the salad will still taste great.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can make cucumber salad a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh for maximum crunch. If making ahead, store the cucumbers and dressing separately and toss them together just before serving.

What type of cucumber is best for this salad?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and thinner skins. Regular cucumbers can also be used but may need to be peeled and seeded.

Can I add other vegetables to cucumber salad?

Absolutely! Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for extra color and crunch.

Conclusion

Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and easy dish that pairs well with any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light snack, this cucumber salad is sure to become a favorite. For more refreshing side dishes, check out our Healthy Salad Recipe or explore Summer Side Dishes for more inspiration!