This Easy Refreshing Cucumber Salad is a bright and crunchy dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal! Just mix sliced cucumbers with a tangy dressing and a sprinkle of herbs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use medium cucumbers for a juicy crunch. If you prefer or can’t find them, try English cucumbers—they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Red Onion: Red onions give a nice color and a mild flavor. If you want less bite, swap with green onions or sweet onions, which are milder.
Fresh Herbs: Dill and chives are key here. If you don’t have fresh ones, dried herbs can work, but use less (1 tsp of dried dill instead of 2 tbsp fresh). Just remember, fresh herbs make a big difference!
Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar adds tang. You can try rice vinegar for a milder taste, or lemon juice for a citrus twist.
Sugar: This balances the acidity. If you want it sugar-free, consider using honey or a sugar substitute that’s suitable for your diet.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumber Salad Is Extra Crunchy?
To keep your salad crisp, it’s vital to prepare your cucumbers properly. After slicing, sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Use a fine mesh strainer to drain the liquid.
- Pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad. This step is key for crunch!
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes in the fridge for better flavor and texture.
How to Make an Easy Refreshing Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes of chill time in the refrigerator. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and cool side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. A mandoline slicer works great for uniform slices, but a knife is just fine too! Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly. Place both in a large mixing bowl, making it easy to toss everything together later.
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now it’s time to brighten up your salad! Add the chopped fresh dill and chives into the bowl with the cucumbers and onions. These herbs will add a lovely flavor and aroma to your dish.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar if you prefer), sugar, salt, and pepper. Keep mixing until the sugar is dissolved completely. If you like a richer flavor, you can whisk in the olive oil until everything is combined.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together to make sure everything is coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Chill in the Refrigerator:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a container with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This wait time helps all the flavors mingle and gives the cucumbers time to soak up the dressing, making the salad even more delectable!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once chilled, give your salad another gentle toss before serving. Garnish the top with extra sprigs of dill and a sprinkle of chives for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your crisp, refreshing cucumber salad as a perfect side dish for any meal!
This salad is light, tangy, and fresh—ideal for hot days or as a crisp accompaniment to grilled meats or sandwiches. Enjoy! 🥒🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can add thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Just be mindful of the water content in each vegetable to maintain that crunchy texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days as the cucumbers can become watery over time. If you notice extra liquid, just drain it before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for meal prep. It can be made up to a day in advance; just be sure to keep it chilled in the fridge. The flavors will develop even more, making it even tastier!
How Do I Make the Salad Spicier?
If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred heat level!
