There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that captures the essence of a cool breeze on a summer afternoon, isn’t there? Creamy Cucumber Salad, with its crisp slices and velvety dressing, feels like a gentle hug from nature itself. I often find myself reminiscing about lazy picnics whenever I prepare it—watching the world go by while savoring each refreshing bite.
Steps
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large, shallow bowl. Add thinly sliced red onion and freshly chopped dill to the bowl.
- Pour vinegar over the cucumber mixture and sprinkle with granulated sugar and coarse kosher salt. Toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill up to 2 hours before serving.
- Once marinated, serve the cucumber dill salad chilled as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy the crisp and tangy flavors with your favorite meals.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch pieces
- 1/8 medium red onion, sliced thinly
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/3 cup distilled vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons coarse kosher sea salt
Nutritional Values
Calories: 176kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.08g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 2920mg | Potassium: 848mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 524IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 1.6mg
FAQ
- Can I substitute dried dill for fresh dill in the Cucumber Dill Salad?
- Yes, you can use dried dill as an alternative. However, since dried dill is more concentrated, use only one-third of the amount specified for fresh dill, which would be about 1 tablespoon.
- What tool can I use to achieve even cucumber slices?
- To create uniform slices, a mandolin or vegetable slicer is recommended. However, if these tools aren’t available, a sharp knife will also suffice.
- Can I enhance the Cucumber Dill Salad with other herbs and spices?
- Absolutely, you can add herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of freshness. Spices such as black pepper or garlic powder can be included for a more robust flavor.
- Is it possible to store the Cucumber Dill Salad for later use?
- Yes, you can keep the salad in a sealed jar or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Due to its fresh ingredients, freezing is not recommended.
- Can I make the Cucumber Dill Salad creamier?
- Yes, for a creamy variation, you can mix in sour cream or plain Greek yogurt with the dressing.
Tips
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the cucumbers for at least 2 hours before serving; however, if pressed for time, a quick 20-minute soak can still impart a delightful taste.
- To achieve the ideal cucumber texture, consider peeling and draining them. If you prefer a crunchier salad, leave the skin on for additional texture and color.
- Using a mandolin or sharp knife will help you achieve uniform cucumber slices, ensuring even flavor distribution and a professional-looking salad.
- For a creamy variation, incorporate sour cream or Greek yogurt into the dressing to add richness and depth to the salad.
Equipment
- Mandolin slicer – for achieving even slices of cucumbers.
- Airtight container or large shallow bowl with a lid – for marinating and storing the salad.
