This refreshing cucumber salad is perfect for hot summer days! It mixes crisp cucumbers with tangy dressing, giving you a cool and tasty side dish in no time.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just chop, mix, and enjoy. It pairs great with grilled food, too. Your taste buds will thank you on a sunny day! ☀️🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large cucumbers for this salad. English cucumbers are perfect as they have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work well too, but consider peeling them to reduce bitterness.
Red Onion: Red onions give a nice color and mild flavor. If they’re too strong for you, try using sweet onions or green onions instead. Both options will add a different but delicious taste.
Dill: Fresh dill is key for flavor! If you don’t have it or prefer something different, try fresh parsley or basil instead for a unique twist.
Vinegar: White vinegar adds tanginess, but you could use apple cider vinegar for a sweeter taste. If you’re looking for a milder option, rice vinegar is also a great choice.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are optional but add color and sweetness. If you don’t have these, diced bell peppers are a good substitute for a crunchier texture.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crisp?
To keep your cucumber salad crunchy, it’s essential to properly prepare your cucumbers. Here’s how:
- Slice cucumbers thin for maximum crispness.
- After slicing, sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out excess water.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the salad. This keeps the salad dressing from becoming watery.
Also, making the salad ahead of time and letting it chill in the fridge enhances the flavors while keeping the cucumbers fresh and crisp. Just be sure not to leave it for too long—enjoy within a day or two for the best texture!
Refreshing Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors mingle. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can enjoy it. Perfect for a hot summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. If your cucumbers have thick skin, feel free to peel them partially or completely based on your preference. This step will help enhance the overall texture of the salad.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and red onion. Gently toss them together to ensure they’re evenly mixed. This will create a colorful base for your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Keep whisking until you see that the sugar has dissolved completely. This dressing will add zesty flavor to our salad!
4. Mix Dressing with Vegetables:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss everything well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the dressing, making sure every bite will be delicious!
5. Add the Dill:
Next, add the chopped fresh dill to the bowl. Gently mix it in so that the fresh herby flavor is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
6. Optional: Add Cherry Tomatoes:
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, now’s the time to fold them in! This step not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a juicy sweetness to each bite.
7. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making for a refreshing treat.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss. Serve it cold as a delightful side dish at your summer gatherings or enjoy it on its own. This crisp, refreshing cucumber salad is sure to be a hit!
FAQ About Refreshing Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, radishes, or even diced avocado would make great additions. They add variety and flavor while keeping the salad fresh and crunchy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If you’re worried about the cucumbers getting soggy, you can keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead! Just be mindful that the cucumbers may release some water in the dressing, so you might want to toss in fresh dill just before serving to brighten it up.
How Can I Make the Salad More Filling?
If you’re looking for a heartier version, consider adding some protein like chickpeas, diced grilled chicken, or even feta cheese. This will turn your salad into a more substantial meal!
