This Refreshing Cucumber Salad is a crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a light snack on its own. The combination of fresh cucumbers, onions, and a flavorful dressing creates a perfect balance of crunch and zest. Whether you’re looking for a cooling side dish for a summer barbecue or a simple yet elegant addition to your meal, this salad is a fantastic choice.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ small red onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them for a smoother texture. For English or Persian cucumbers, peeling is optional.
- Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water for about 5 minutes. This helps to mellow its sharpness while keeping its crunch.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using garlic powder or mustard seeds, add them to the dressing for extra depth of flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain the onions and pat them dry. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salad and mix lightly. Dill adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the tangy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad:
- Use fresh cucumbers: The fresher the cucumbers, the crisper and juicier your salad will be.
- Adjust sweetness and acidity: If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar. For extra tang, increase the vinegar.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh mint or parsley can be great alternatives to dill.
- Make it creamy: Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy variation.
- Pairing suggestions: This salad goes well with grilled chicken, salmon, or even a hearty sandwich.
This Refreshing Cucumber Salad is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy! 🥒✨
Would you like variations or additional serving ideas? Let me know!