Cucumber salad is a delightful, refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days or as a light side to complement any meal. This easy-to-make salad combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with a tangy dressing, creating a burst of flavors that is both hydrating and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a healthy snack, this cucumber salad is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and Slice: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Soak (Optional): For extra crispiness, you can soak the cucumber slices in ice water for about 30 minutes. Drain and pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion
- Slice Thinly: Peel and thinly slice the red onion. If the taste of raw onion is too strong for your liking, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Mix Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are well coated.
- Chill: For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Chilled: Serve the cucumber salad chilled as a refreshing side dish.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with a sprig of dill or a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.
Cooking Notes
- Variations: You can customize this salad by adding other fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or bell peppers.
- Sweetness: Adjust the level of sweetness in the dressing to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of honey or sugar.
- Vinegar: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or rice vinegar can be used as substitutes.
- Herbs: Fresh mint or basil can be used instead of dill for a different flavor profile.
Variations
Greek Cucumber Salad:
- Add crumbled feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, and a handful of cherry tomatoes. Use oregano instead of dill in the dressing.
Spicy Cucumber Salad:
- Add thinly sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount of honey to balance the heat.
Creamy Cucumber Salad:
- Substitute half of the dressing with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy version. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Even Slices: Use a mandoline slicer to ensure the cucumber slices are even and thin, which helps with the texture and appearance of the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld and enhances the refreshing taste.
- Pat Dry: If you soak the cucumbers in ice water, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly to prevent excess water from diluting the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
- With Grilled Meats: This cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Picnics and Barbecues: It’s a perfect side dish for outdoor gatherings, as it’s light and refreshing.
- Healthy Snack: Enjoy a bowl as a healthy, low-calorie snack any time of the day.
This refreshing cucumber salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With its crisp texture and tangy dressing, it’s a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals or a delightful snack on its own. Easy to prepare and customize, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the cool, fresh flavors and the health benefits of this simple yet delicious dish.
