This easy garlic dill cucumber recipe is a refreshing treat! Crisp cucumbers mix perfectly with garlic, dill, and a bit of vinegar for a zesty flavor.
They’re great as a side dish or a snack. Honestly, I could munch on these all day—just try to keep them on the table and not all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work fine too. Just remember to peel them if the skin is tough!
Garlic: Fresh garlic kicks up the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Dill: Fresh dill has the best flavor, but if you only have dried dill, it will still taste great. Just use less (1 tablespoon of dried for every 2 tablespoons of fresh).
Vinegar: I like white vinegar for a bright taste, but apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang. If you want a milder flavor, rice vinegar is also a good choice.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumbers Are Crunchy and Flavorful?
To keep your cucumbers crisp, start by slicing them right before you mix in the dressing. If you have time, sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before adding other ingredients. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Wash and slice the cucumbers.
- Sprinkle with salt, let sit, then gently pat dry.
- Combine with other ingredients and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
This process locks in crunchiness while ensuring the flavors really soak in. Enjoy your refreshing garlic dill cucumbers!
Easy Homemade Garlic Dill Cucumbers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large cucumbers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40-70 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty garlic dill cucumbers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers well. If you’d like, you can peel them, but it’s optional. Next, cut each cucumber in half lengthwise, and then slice them into quarters. The cucumber pieces should be easy to pick up with a fork!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic and chopped dill. Now pour in the vinegar and olive oil, then sprinkle the salt and pepper over everything.
3. Toss to Combine:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until the cucumbers are well coated in the garlic dill mixture. Make sure every piece gets some love from that delicious dressing!
4. Marinate in the Refrigerator:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the cucumbers marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This waiting time lets the flavors soak deep into the cucumbers – trust me, it’s worth it!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done marinating, take them out and give them a quick stir. Serve the garlic dill cucumbers chilled as a refreshing side dish or a tasty snack. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
FAQ: Easy Homemade Garlic Dill Cucumbers
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are great for this recipe because of their thin skin and fewer seeds, regular cucumbers work well too. Just peel them if the skin is too tough for your liking.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cucumbers?
You can store leftover garlic dill cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give them a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The ingredients are all plant-based, so just enjoy it as is. It’s a perfect side for any meal!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while combining the ingredients. Just be sure to adjust to your heat preference!
