This Easy Cucumber Salad is the epitome of simplicity and freshness. The cool cucumber slices are perfectly complemented by the tangy dressing, while fresh herbs like dill and parsley add a burst of flavor that makes every bite refreshing. It’s the ideal side dish for a light lunch, a barbecue, or even a healthy snack.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding other fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or even toss in a handful of crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need something quick and satisfying, this cucumber salad will surely become a go-to in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
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2 large cucumbers
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1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Directions:
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Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
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Place the cucumber slices and red onion into a large bowl.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions and toss well to coat.
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Add the fresh dill, parsley, and garlic powder (if using) and stir to combine.
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Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 60 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Cucumber Salad?
Cucumbers are known for their refreshing, mild flavor and crunchy texture. They are not only hydrating but also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free meal. This Easy Cucumber Salad embraces these benefits, offering a quick and simple way to enjoy cucumbers at their best. The addition of onions, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing transforms the humble cucumber into a dish that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor.
Cucumbers are incredibly versatile. In this salad, they take center stage, allowing the other ingredients to complement their mild taste. The slight sweetness of the dressing and the pop of herbs create a balanced flavor profile that’s both refreshing and savory. Whether you’re serving it as a light snack or pairing it with a main dish, it’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad
This cucumber salad offers a variety of health benefits, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to eat more healthily. Cucumbers are packed with water, helping to keep you hydrated, especially during hot summer months. They also contain antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and promote overall health. Additionally, cucumbers are a good source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
The dressing, made with vinegar and olive oil, adds another layer of health benefits. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while vinegar can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley not only enhance the flavor but also contribute valuable nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune health and skin vitality.
How to Serve Easy Cucumber Salad
One of the best things about this Easy Cucumber Salad is its versatility. It can be served in so many different ways, making it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate it into your meals:
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As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a light, satisfying meal. The cool crunch of the cucumbers complements the richness of grilled meats beautifully.
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At a Picnic or Barbecue: Cucumber salad is a perfect addition to any outdoor gathering. Its fresh, light flavors are refreshing and complement the hearty, often spicy foods typically found at barbecues.
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In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use this cucumber salad as a topping for wraps or sandwiches. It adds a crunchy, refreshing element that balances out the flavors of more filling ingredients.
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Meal Prep: This cucumber salad is perfect for meal prepping. Simply prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. It’s quick and easy to throw together when you need a healthy snack or side dish.
Customizing Your Cucumber Salad
The beauty of this Easy Cucumber Salad lies in its simplicity, but you can easily make it your own by adding or swapping ingredients based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas to customize the recipe:
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Add Tomatoes: For an extra burst of color and flavor, toss in some cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. They provide a juicy sweetness that complements the cucumber’s mild taste.
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Use Red or Yellow Bell Peppers: If you want to add a little extra crunch and sweetness, bell peppers are a great choice. They’re colorful and add a delightful texture to the salad.
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Try Different Herbs: While dill and parsley are the stars of this salad, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or cilantro to change up the flavor profile. Fresh basil also works wonderfully for a more Mediterranean twist.
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Add Feta Cheese: If you enjoy a bit of cheese in your salads, consider adding crumbled feta cheese. The salty, tangy feta pairs well with the freshness of the cucumbers and herbs.
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Make It Spicy: For those who love a little heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers will give the salad an extra kick.
The Secret to the Perfect Dressing
The dressing for this Easy Cucumber Salad is one of the key elements that ties all the ingredients together. It’s made with a simple combination of white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. The vinegar adds a tangy acidity that contrasts beautifully with the mild flavor of the cucumbers, while the olive oil gives the dressing a smooth richness. The sugar balances the acidity, creating a harmonious flavor that enhances the freshness of the vegetables.
Feel free to adjust the proportions of the ingredients based on your taste. If you prefer a more tangy dressing, you can add more vinegar. For a sweeter version, increase the sugar slightly. The beauty of this salad is that the dressing is customizable to suit your personal preferences, allowing you to create a version that’s perfect for your taste buds.
Why Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
One of the best things about this Easy Cucumber Salad is that it actually gets better the longer it sits. By allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, the flavors have time to meld together, making every bite even more delicious. This makes it the perfect dish to prepare ahead of time for a party, picnic, or meal prep. You can even make it the night before and let it rest in the fridge overnight for even more flavor development.
The longer it sits, the more the cucumbers absorb the dressing, making them even more flavorful. This salad is also a great make-ahead option for busy individuals who want a healthy side dish or snack ready to go.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Delicious Dish
In conclusion, this Easy Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a refreshing, healthy, and simple side dish. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for something to complement a summer BBQ or a light, nutritious addition to your lunch, this cucumber salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
With its hydrating properties, antioxidant content, and delicious flavor, this salad is not only good for your body but also a treat for your taste buds. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a solo meal. Don’t forget to get creative with your ingredients—this salad has endless possibilities, and you can easily make it your own!