When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a light, crisp salad to cool you down and add some brightness to your meal. This Cucumber Salad is the ultimate summer dish, combining refreshing cucumber slices with a tangy, sweet dressing that makes it the perfect side for any barbecue, picnic, or casual dinner. It’s quick to make, low in calories, and packed with hydration, making it an ideal choice for those hot days when you want something refreshing but still satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cucumber Salad is all about simplicity and flavor. The cucumbers stay wonderfully crisp, and the tangy dressing, which blends vinegar, sugar, and fresh herbs, soaks into the slices without losing their crunch. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also hydrating, low in calories, and incredibly quick to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a simple side dish, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers – peeled and thinly sliced (you can use a mandoline for consistent slices)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar – apple cider vinegar works too if you prefer a milder taste
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – you can adjust this based on how sweet you like your dressing
- 1 teaspoon salt – this helps balance the flavors and enhance the tanginess
- 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional) – adds color, flavor, and a little bite
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill – this herb adds a fresh, bright flavor. If you don’t have dill, you can substitute parsley for a milder herbaceous note
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or sour cream – for extra richness, these ingredients can add a creamy contrast to the salad’s tangy dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by peeling the cucumbers (if you prefer, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and color). Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers. Aim for even, thin slices to ensure consistency in texture. If you have a mandoline slicer, it will make the process much quicker and easier. Once sliced, place the cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, granulated sugar, and salt. Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves completely. This will create a tangy-sweet base for the salad. If you’re using red onion, add the diced onion into the dressing now. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the onion’s bite and allow the flavors to mingle.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers in the large bowl. Gently toss to coat the cucumbers evenly in the dressing. If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it over the top of the salad and give everything one final gentle toss. The dill adds a refreshing, slightly earthy note that pairs perfectly with the cool cucumber.
Step 4: Optional Toppings
For a richer flavor, you can crumble some feta cheese on top of the salad or swirl in a spoonful of sour cream. These ingredients provide a creamy contrast to the tangy, crunchy cucumbers and add a little indulgence to the dish.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For the best taste, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving. The chilled cucumber salad will be even more refreshing when served cold.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to get creative with your cucumber salad. Add thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, toss in a few red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to give the salad a spicy kick.
- Vegan Option: Skip the feta cheese or sour cream to keep the salad fully vegan, or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
Why You’ll Want This Recipe All Summer Long:
This Cucumber Salad is an incredibly versatile and easy dish that works for so many occasions. It’s perfect for a summer cookout, alongside grilled meats or served as a light lunch. It’s also great for meal prep as the flavors continue to develop after sitting in the fridge. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more hydrating, fresh ingredients into your meals while keeping things light.
So, next time you’re looking for something quick and flavorful to add to your table, this Cucumber Salad is the perfect go-to recipe.
