Picture a vibrant bowl filled with crisp, cool cucumbers glistening in the sunlight, each slice offering a satisfying crunch that dances on your palate. The tangy dressing mingles with fresh herbs and a hint of zesty lemon, creating a refreshing cucumber salad that feels like a summer breeze, perfect for picnics or backyard barbecues.
As I recall those lazy afternoons spent sharing laughter and stories with friends over this delightful dish, the anticipation of each bite brings back the joy of simple pleasures. This cucumber salad not only brightens up your plate but also elevates any meal, promising an experience that is as lighthearted as it is delicious, making it an ideal companion for any sunny occasion.
Why Will You Keep Making cucumber salad?
Refreshing and light, this cucumber salad is the ultimate summer side dish! Crisp cucumbers provide a hydrating crunch, while juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. The zesty red onion gives it a kick, and the fresh dill imparts a delightful herbaceous note. With just 15 minutes of prep, this simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for barbecues or picnics, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress!
cucumber salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 medium cucumbers (sliced) – Fresh cucumbers provide a crisp texture and hydrating quality to your cucumber salad.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) – Sweet cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor that complements the cool cucumbers.
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced) – Red onion offers a mild sharpness, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and freshness of the cucumbers.
- ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped) – Fresh dill brings a fragrant, herbal note that elevates the overall taste of this refreshing dish.
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – A rich, fruity olive oil acts as a smooth base for your dressing, enhancing the flavors of the salad.
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar – This tangy vinegar adds brightness and acidity, making each bite of cucumber salad zing with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional) – A hint of honey can sweeten your dressing naturally, balancing out the vinegar's tanginess if desired.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors in your cucumber salad without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – A touch of black pepper adds a subtle warmth, rounding out the taste profile beautifully.
How to Make cucumber salad
1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 medium cucumbers (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced), and ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped). This colorful medley sets the stage for a refreshing summer dish.
2. Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey (optional), ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. This simple dressing will elevate your cucumber salad with flavor.
3. Mix Together: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. Ensure every piece is coated in deliciousness, making each bite a burst of flavor.
4. Let it Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Optional: Garnish with extra dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for cucumber salad
- Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Select firm, unblemished cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor. Avoid ones that feel soft or have wrinkles.
- Slice Evenly: For a visually appealing cucumber salad, slice your cucumbers uniformly. This ensures even marination and a consistent bite.
- Dill Freshness Matters: Use fresh dill rather than dried for a burst of flavor. If using dried, reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the salad.
- Taste Test Your Dressing: Adjust the honey and vinegar based on your preference. If you're looking for tanginess, add more vinegar; for sweetness, increase the honey.
- Don't Rush the Resting Time: Allowing your cucumber salad to sit for 10 minutes is crucial. It lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing each bite.
How to Store and Freeze cucumber salad
- Fridge: Keep your cucumber salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its fresh crunch and vibrant flavors.
- Freezer: It’s best not to freeze cucumber salad, as the texture of cucumbers and tomatoes can become mushy once thawed.
- Prep Ahead: If you want to prepare in advance, slice the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes separately from the dressing. Combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Avoid Over-mixing: To prevent wilting, mix in the fresh dill right before serving, ensuring your cucumber salad stays bright and delicious!
cucumber salad Your Way
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful dish to your taste preferences!
- Creamy Touch: Add ½ cup of Greek yogurt for a rich, tangy twist. This addition not only enhances flavor but also gives the salad a silky texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy cucumbers.
- Herb Medley: Substitute dill with fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note. Each herb brings its own unique fragrance and flavor, making your salad feel like a new dish entirely!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat. This spicy twist elevates the freshness of the vegetables while adding an exciting zing to every bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for added texture. The nutty flavor adds depth and makes the salad even more satisfying.
- Colorful Variation: Swap cherry tomatoes for bell peppers or radishes for a vibrant look and additional crunch. Not only do these alternatives brighten up your dish, but they also offer different flavors that can complement the cucumbers perfectly.
- Sweet Surprise: Drizzle in some balsamic glaze instead of honey for a sweet and tangy finish. This substitution will enhance the overall taste profile, giving your salad a gourmet flair that's sure to impress.
- Citrus Zing: Add zest from one lemon or lime to brighten up the dressing. The citrus notes infuse freshness into each bite, making this summer salad even more refreshing!
Make Ahead Options
This cucumber salad is an ideal choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy refreshing bites throughout the week. You can slice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh dill up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper a day ahead. Store all components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the salad ingredients in a bowl, pour over the dressing, toss gently, and let it sit for 10 minutes. This way, you'll have a delightful cucumber salad ready without any last-minute fuss!
cucumber salad Questions Answered
What type of cucumbers should I use for this salad?
For the best flavor and crunch, opt for English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for slicing. Just remember to slice them thinly so they blend well with the other ingredients!
How can I store leftover cucumber salad?
If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for about 1–2 days. However, be aware that cucumbers can release water, so the salad may become a bit watery over time.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cucumber salad up to 4 hours in advance. Just mix everything except the dressing and keep it covered in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, whisk up the dressing and toss it with the salad just before serving to maintain its fresh crunch.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
No worries! If you’re out of fresh dill, you can substitute it with dried dill (use about 1 tablespoon) or try other herbs like parsley or basil for a different twist. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile that can refresh your cucumber salad differently!
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This refreshing cucumber salad serves 4 people, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or family dinners. Each serving contains about 120 calories, so feel free to enjoy guilt-free!
Is there a way to make this salad lower in calories?
Certainly! To lighten it further, you could reduce the olive oil from 3 tablespoons to 2 and skip the honey. This will cut down on calories while still keeping that delightful flavor intact. Enjoy your healthy summer dish!
Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped dill.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
