This Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad is the perfect side dish for summer! Crisp cucumbers mix with fresh dill and a tangy dressing to create a cool, refreshing dish. It’s a big hit at barbecues!
Honestly, nothing beats the taste of cool cucumbers on a hot day. I love serving this salad with grilled chicken or fish—it adds a lovely crunch and flavor that everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch. English cucumbers are also great because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you’re in a pinch, use smaller salad cucumbers or even pickling cucumbers for a different twist.
Dill: Fresh dill gives an amazing flavor. If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can work, but use less (about 1 tablespoon). Personally, nothing beats the fresh herb taste in this salad!
Red Onion: The mildness of red onion adds nice color. If you’re looking for milder flavor, you can use green onions instead. Just slice them thinly, and sprinkle for a fresh taste.
Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar is ideal. If neither is available, try rice vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor. It’s light and works well in summer salads!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Extra Refreshing?
To really amp up the freshness of your salad, focus on a couple of key techniques:
- Chill your salad: After you mix everything, let it chill in the fridge. This gives the flavors a chance to mix and helps the veggies stay crispy.
- Slice properly: Thin slices of cucumber will absorb the dressing better and make it more enjoyable. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife for best results.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Salt enhances all flavors, so taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick!
How to Make Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cucumber dill salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you should budget around 40 minutes for this refreshing dish, making it easy to add to any summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Using a knife or a mandoline, slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the better they’ll soak in the dressing!
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped fresh dill, and thinly sliced red onion. Give them a gentle toss to distribute everything evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if you like a bit of sweetness), salt, and pepper. Mix until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mix and toss gently to coat all the veggies in the dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Final Touches Before Serving:
Before you dig in, give the salad another toss and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Then, serve it chilled as a delightful side dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While large cucumbers are great, you can also use English cucumbers for their thin skins and fewer seeds, or even small pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture. Just ensure they’re fresh!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers might lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! Just make sure to give it a good toss before serving and, if needed, adjust the seasoning to refresh the flavors. This allows the cucumbers to marinate nicely!
What Are Good Substitutions for the Dressing?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace the vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy twist. Additionally, using avocado oil instead of olive oil will give it a different flavor profile while keeping it healthy!
