This crunchy Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad is perfect for hot days! It’s full of fresh cucumbers, creamy white beans, and a zesty dill dressing that makes every bite delicious.
I love how this salad is not only easy to whip up but also so refreshing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Enjoy it as a side dish or all on its own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. However, if you only have regular cucumbers, that’s fine too! Just peel the skin if it’s too thick for your taste.
White Beans: Cannellini beans add a lovely creaminess, but navy beans work well too. If you’re looking for a bean alternative, chickpeas can also create a delicious twist.
Fresh Dill: Dill brings a fresh flavor to the salad. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill can be a good substitute, but you’ll need much less—about one teaspoon should do.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have a lemon, lime juice works as a fantastic substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Dressing?
The dressing is where the magic happens, so you’ll want to get it just right. Start by combining lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dill in a bowl. Whisk until everything is blended smoothly.
- For the best flavor, let the dressing sit for a few minutes before mixing it with the salad. This allows the garlic and dill to infuse their flavors into the dressing.
- Always taste the dressing before adding it to your vegetables; you can adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- When mixing, remember to toss gently so you keep the integrity of the beans and cucumbers.
Refreshing Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors blend together. Total time: about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. Rinse the white beans under cold water, and finely chop the red onion. Place these ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped fresh dill for a burst of flavor.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well blended together; this is your dressing that will bring the salad to life!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and bean mixture in the big bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together so that the dressing coats the cucumbers and beans evenly.
4. Chilling Time:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, gently toss the salad again to ensure everything is well mixed. Taste it, and add more salt or pepper if needed. Then, it’s ready to serve!
6. Enjoy!
Serve this delicious Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad chilled as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light lunch. Enjoy the refreshing flavors!
Can I Use Different Beans for This Salad?
Absolutely! While white beans like cannellini or navy beans are recommended, you can use other beans such as chickpeas or black beans for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the cucumbers may lose some crispness over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad several hours ahead of time, or even a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. The chilling time helps enhance the flavors!
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This Dilly White Bean Cucumber Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a larger picnic spread. It can also be enjoyed on its own for a light, healthy meal!
