After a long, sweltering day, nothing sounds more refreshing than a crisp Cucumber Salad. The moment I slice into an English cucumber and hear that satisfying crunch, I’m transported to a sunlit picnic, the tang of fresh herb vinaigrette dancing in the air. This versatile salad is my go-to dish for summer gatherings, adding a lively pop of flavor and color to any meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just a few ingredients combine to create a dish that is not only healthy and gluten-free but also a breeze to whip up. Whether you’re complimenting grilled meats at a barbecue or looking for a quick side for a weeknight dinner, this Cucumber Salad is the ultimate solution. With the option to elevate it with herbs or even a dash of feta, it’s bound to impress anyone at your table. Let’s dive into the freshness of summer with this delightful recipe!
Why love this Cucumber Salad recipe?
Refreshing, it bursts with flavor from crunchy cucumbers and zesty vinaigrette that makes every bite a delight. Quick to prepare, this dish fits perfectly into busy summer nights, taking just minutes to whip up. Versatile enough to pair with sandwiches or grilled meats, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Healthy and gluten-free, you can indulge without the guilt. Appealing presentation with vibrant colors and textures adds a touch of elegance to any table setting. Get ready to savor summer simplicity!
Cucumber Salad Ingredients
• Discover the perfect balance of fresh flavors!
For the Salad
- English Cucumbers – The star of the dish, providing a refreshing crunch; select long, greenhouse cucumbers for an optimal taste.
- Red Onion – Offers a mild bite and lovely color; slice thin to enhance its distribution in the salad.
- Salt – Essential for drawing moisture from the cucumbers, helping prevent a watery salad.
For the Dressing
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy acidity; feel free to substitute with other vinegars like white wine or balsamic.
- Olive Oil – Enriches the vinaigrette; any quality oil works, but a fruity variety can elevate flavors.
- Mayonnaise – Introduces creaminess to the dressing; optional based on your preference for a lighter or richer flavor.
- Honey – A touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess; maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.
- Fresh Parsley – Provides a fresh herbal note; feel free to swap with basil or cilantro for a zingy twist.
- Fresh Dill – Infuses the salad with a distinct flavor; consider mint as an alternative for a fresh twist.
- Garlic – Minced finely to deepen the dressing’s flavor; adjust based on your taste for stronger garlic.
- Black Pepper – For seasoning; personalize the amount according to your preference for spice.
This Cucumber Salad is not only quick to prepare but also a vibrant addition to your summer meals. Enjoy crafting this wholesome dish!
How to Make Cucumber Salad
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Slice cucumbers and place them in a colander; sprinkle with salt. Let them drain in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to remove excess moisture, ensuring your salad remains crisp and light.
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Whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, mayonnaise, honey, parsley, dill, minced garlic, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Chill the dressing until you’re ready to use it for a burst of fresh flavor.
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Rinse and drain the red onion using a fine mesh sieve. This will mellow its flavor, making it a delightful addition rather than overpowering the salad.
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Pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels and transfer them to a large bowl along with the drained red onion, ready to come together in delicious harmony.
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Re-whisk the dressing before pouring it over the cucumbers and onion. Gently toss everything to coat, allowing the vibrant flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve your Cucumber Salad within one hour for the best texture and taste, relishing in the crunch and freshness it brings to your meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crisp Cucumber Salad
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Salting Technique: Ensure cucumbers are salted and drained properly to maintain crunch and prevent sogginess. This step is crucial for a fresh salad.
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Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after dressing it. If left too long, the dressing will cause the cucumbers to become watery.
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Onion Adjustment: Adjust the amount of red onion and garlic based on your taste preference. A little can go a long way, especially if you’re sensitive to strong flavors.
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Chill Ingredients: Keeping the cucumbers and the vinaigrette chilled prior to mixing enhances the refreshing taste of the Cucumber Salad.
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Customize Your Dressing: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or vinegar types. It’s a great way to personalize your salad to suit your meal or mood!
How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Cucumber Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to serve fresh to maintain its crispness.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Cucumber Salad, as the texture of cucumbers can change and become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: As the salad is best enjoyed cold, simply serve it chilled. No reheating is necessary, which preserves the delightful crunch.
Dressing Separation: If you have leftover dressing, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week. Dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant!
Cucumber Salad Variations
Feel free to switch things up and make this vibrant salad your own with these exciting variations!
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Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta for a creamy, salty flavor that enhances the salad’s freshness.
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Cornichons: Include chopped gherkins or cornichons for an irresistible crunch and a tangy twist that wakes up the palate.
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Yogurt Dressing: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to create a lighter dressing with a protein boost that adds creaminess without the heaviness.
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Fresh Mint: Incorporate chopped fresh mint for a refreshing summery burst that elevates the herbaceous notes of the salad.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an unexpected heat that adds excitement to each bite.
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Avocado: Include diced avocado for rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crisp cucumbers.
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Chickpeas: Add rinsed canned chickpeas for extra texture and a hearty element, transforming your salad into a more filling dish.
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Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that adds depth to the overall taste profile of the salad.
What to Serve with Cucumber Salad?
Nothing complements a warm summer evening quite like a refreshing side that adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky flavors of grilled chicken enhance the salad’s freshness, creating a balanced plate perfect for summer gatherings.
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Barbecue Ribs: The rich, tangy sauce of barbecue ribs pairs beautifully with the crunchy and refreshing elements of cucumber salad, providing a satisfying contrast.
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Burgers: A classic cookout staple, the savory, hearty flavors of burgers work harmoniously alongside the lightness of cucumber salad, refreshing the palate.
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Fish Tacos: The zesty and vibrant flavors of fish tacos unite with the crispness of cucumber salad, making each bite an exciting experience.
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Quinoa Bowl: Healthy and filling, a quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables adds earthiness that complements the vibrant crunch of the salad perfectly.
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White Wine Spritzer: This light, bubbly drink offers a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of your main dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: End your meal with a light, citrusy lemon sorbet that cleanses the palate and echoes the brightness of the cucumber salad.
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Pita Chips: For a delightful snack or appetizer, enjoy crunchy pita chips that tie together with creamy dips, balancing the refreshing qualities of your salad.
Make Ahead Options
Cucumber Salad is an ideal choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can slice the cucumbers and soak them in salt for up to 24 hours beforehand, allowing you to skip this step during mealtime. Additionally, you can prepare the dressing (whisked with vinegar, oil, mayo, honey, herbs, garlic, and spices) up to 3 days in advance—just store it in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply rinse the cucumbers to remove excess salt, pat them dry, and toss them with the dressing and drained red onion. This ensures your Cucumber Salad stays crisp and delicious with minimal effort!
Cucumber Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use for the best Cucumber Salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for long English cucumbers, which provide the perfect crunch. Mini Persian cucumbers can also work well if you prefer something a bit smaller and sweeter!
How long can I store leftover Cucumber Salad?
Leftover Cucumber Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I highly recommend enjoying it fresh, as the cucumbers can lose their crispness over time.
Can I freeze Cucumber Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for Cucumber Salad. Cucumbers have a high water content, and freezing them will change their texture, making them mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain that delightful crunch.
What should I do if my salad becomes watery?
If your Cucumber Salad does become watery, it’s likely due to not salting the cucumbers adequately beforehand. To troubleshoot, you can try gently patting the cucumbers dry again before serving or omit the dressing for a bit, allowing excess liquid to drain. Always salt and let them sit for 30-60 minutes to draw out moisture effectively!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free and can easily accommodate different dietary preferences. To make it vegan, simply omit the mayonnaise or substitute it with plant-based yogurt. Always check the labels of the vinegar and any additional ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use other herbs in the dressing?
Very much! While fresh dill is wonderful for its distinct flavor, feel free to experiment with fresh basil, cilantro, or mint. Each will lend your Cucumber Salad a unique twist, enhancing the overall freshness and flavor profile. Enjoy personalizing it to your taste!
Crisp Cucumber Salad with Herb Vinaigrette for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice cucumbers and place them in a colander; sprinkle with salt. Let them drain in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes.
- Whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, mayonnaise, honey, parsley, dill, minced garlic, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Chill the dressing.
- Rinse and drain the red onion using a fine mesh sieve.
- Pat the cucumbers dry and transfer them to a large bowl with the drained red onion.
- Re-whisk the dressing and pour it over the cucumbers and onion. Gently toss to coat.
- Serve your Cucumber Salad within one hour for the best texture.