This refreshing cucumber salad is super simple and quick to make! With crisp cucumbers, a splash of vinegar, and a sprinkle of spices, it’s a great side dish for any meal.
Honestly, I could munch on this all day! It’s so light and tasty, plus it’s perfect for hot days when you need something cool and crunchy. Grab your favorite dressings and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers for their sweetness and crunch. They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. However, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.
Vinegar: White vinegar is the classic choice, but apple cider vinegar adds a hint of sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a milder taste, rice vinegar is another great option.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a fantastic flavor to the salad. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill works fine. Just use less, about a teaspoon, as dried herbs are typically more potent.
Red Onion: While optional, I love the mild bite of red onion in this salad. If you prefer, you can swap it for green onions or omit it entirely for a simpler salad.
How Do You Make Sure the Cucumbers Stay Crisp?
If you want your cucumbers to stay crunchy, there’s a simple trick! After slicing them, you can sprinkle a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out extra moisture. Just remember to pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing in your dressing to avoid a soggy salad.
Also, serving the salad chilled helps keep everything crisp. So, let it hang out in the fridge for at least half an hour before serving. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Fresh and Easy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend together. So, in total, you can expect this recipe to take about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers and the red onion if you’re using it. Place all the slices in a large mixing bowl. The thinner you slice, the more flavor they’ll soak up!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep mixing until the sugar is fully dissolved. This sweet and tangy dressing will bring all the flavors together!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions in the bowl. Add in the chopped fresh dill and olive oil if you like a little extra richness. This is such a vibrant combination!
4. Toss It Up:
Gently toss everything together to make sure the cucumbers and onions are well coated with the dressing. You want all that deliciousness to reach every slice!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with some plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish at your next meal. Enjoy your delicious cucumber salad!
FAQ about Fresh and Easy Cucumber Salad
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make this salad up to a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No worries! You can use dried dill instead; just substitute about 1 teaspoon of dried dill for 2 tablespoons of fresh. If you don’t have dill at all, feel free to skip it or try another herb like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the cucumbers might release more water as they sit.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even avocado can be great additions. Just remember to keep the overall balance of flavors in mind!
