This refreshing cucumber salad is super simple and perfect for hot days! With crisp cucumbers, a splash of vinegar, and some herbs, it’s light and tasty.
Honestly, it’s hard not to eat this entire bowl in one sitting! I love making it when friends come over—it’s a hit every time. Plus, it takes no time at all to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are great for this salad because they have fewer seeds and a thin peel. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too! Just make sure to peel them to avoid a bitter taste.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice crunch and sharp taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use green onion or shallots instead. Spring onions can work well too!
Dill: Fresh dill adds a lovely freshness. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use a teaspoon of dried dill instead. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use a little less.
Vinegar: White vinegar provides a nice tang, but feel free to swap it for apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste. Lemon juice is also a great alternative!
Sugar: This is optional but helps balance the vinegar’s acidity. If you want to keep it no-sugar, you can omit it altogether or use honey or maple syrup for a natural touch.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Cucumber Salad?
The dressing is key to bringing this salad to life! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with vinegar and oil as your base. Whisk them together until well combined. This helps emulsify the dressing!
- If using sugar, add it in and keep whisking until it’s fully dissolved. This prevents any gritty texture in your salad.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Don’t forget to taste your dressing before adding it to the salad—this way, you can make any tweaks!
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture just before serving for the crispest texture. Letting it sit for a bit enhances the flavors but too long can soften the cucumbers.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad with Easy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time. After that, it’s best to let it chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors. So, you’ll spend around 25-30 minutes total from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold water. Slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. You can peel them halfway or leave the skin on if you want extra crunch and color. Give them a taste—both ways are delicious!
2. Slice the Onion and Chop the Dill:
Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly, like you did with the cucumbers. Then, chop your fresh dill. Fresh herbs really brighten up the salad, but if you don’t have fresh, dried dill will do in a pinch!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped dill. Mixing them now will let the flavors mingle a bit!
4. Make the Easy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and everything is creamy and combined. A quick taste test here is a great idea to see if you want a little more salt or sweetness.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your cucumber mixture and gently toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers—they should stay crisp!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Once it’s ready, serve it cold as a refreshing side dish, and enjoy every crunchy bite!
Enjoy this crisp and tangy cucumber salad as a perfect light accompaniment to your meals!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with other fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for extra color and crunch. Just keep the dressing and rest of the ingredients the same for a balanced flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Cucumber Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften the longer they sit, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for maximum crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just mix the cucumbers, onion, and dill together, but wait to add the dressing until about 30 minutes before serving to keep everything crisp.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Dill?
If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried dill as a substitute. Alternatively, fresh parsley or cilantro can also work if you’re looking for a different flavor profile!
