This Easy Refreshing Cucumber Salad is bright and zesty, making it perfect for hot days. With crunchy cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a light dressing, it’s a treat for your taste buds!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Perfect for summer picnics! Just slice, toss, and enjoy while pretending you’re lounging by the pool. 🥒☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch and freshness, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. If you can’t find those, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel them to reduce bitterness if needed.
Red Onion: I love the mild flavor of red onions in this salad. If you prefer, you can switch to green onions for a milder taste or even sliced shallots.
Dill and Chives: Fresh herbs really make a difference! If you don’t have dill or chives, parsley can be a nice substitute. Dried herbs work too, but use about one-third of the amount.
Vinegar: White vinegar gives a bright tang. Apple cider vinegar adds a slightly fruity note. If you’re looking for something milder, rice vinegar is also a great option.
What’s the Best Way to Slice Cucumbers Thinly?
Slicing cucumbers thin is key to a refreshing salad! A mandoline slicer can help you achieve uniform slices quickly. If you don’t have one, don’t worry! Just use a sharp knife and aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures they are crisp and easy to eat.
- Start by washing your cucumbers to remove any dirt.
- Cut off the ends, and then slice them thinly for maximum crunch.
- Keep the skin on for a colorful presentation and extra nutrients!
Easy Refreshing Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 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 teaspoon olive oil or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time. If you want the flavors to blend nicely, give it about 15-30 minutes to chill before serving. So, in total, you’ll need around 30-45 minutes, but most of that time is just letting it chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Wash your cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Then, using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the cucumbers thinly. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness for the best crunch. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Slice the Onion and Chop Herbs:
Next, thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. Don’t forget the fresh herbs! Roughly chop the dill and chives before adding them to your mixing bowl. This adds tons of flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything gently with your hands or a spoon to make sure all the cucumber slices are coated evenly.
5. Enhance the Flavor (Optional):
If you want to give your salad an extra flavor boost, drizzle in a teaspoon of olive oil or squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the salad. Toss it again to mix everything nicely.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 15-30 minutes. This waiting time allows the cucumbers to soak up the dressing and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, give the salad one last gentle toss. Taste it and adjust the salt or pepper as needed. Now it’s ready to wow everyone!
Enjoy this crisp, light cucumber salad as a perfect refreshing side dish, especially on warm days! It’s an easy addition to any meal or a wonderful standalone snack.
FAQ for Easy Refreshing Cucumber Salad
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers of this cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release more water as they sit, so give it a quick toss before serving again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Olives or feta cheese can also make a delightful addition for a Mediterranean twist!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan! The dressing is just vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Just be sure to use a plant-based sweetener if you modify the recipe with anything additional.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can make this salad a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain its freshness. If you’re concerned about the cucumbers becoming too soggy, you can keep the dressing separate until an hour or so before serving.
