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Cucumber Salad

Cucumber Salad
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A fresh, light, and crunchy cucumber salad that combines crisp cucumbers with zesty dressings and fragrant herbs. Perfect as a quick side dish or a standalone healthy meal, this versatile salad is low in calories, quick to make, and customizable with a variety of flavors and add-ins to suit any palate or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large firm, crisp cucumbers (English or Persian)
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, mint, or cilantro (choose one or blend)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for dressing)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for Asian variation)
  • Thin slices of jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for Asian variation)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (for Asian variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. For extra crunch, peel them if desired and slice thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Removing the seeds is optional but helps keep the salad crisp and less watery.
  2. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together your choice of vinegar or lemon juice with olive oil (or Greek yogurt if making a creamy version), salt, pepper, and any additional flavorings such as minced garlic or mustard. This creates a bright, tangy dressing that coats each cucumber slice beautifully.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated and glistening with flavor.
  4. Add Fresh Herbs & Extras: Fold in chopped fresh herbs such as dill, mint, or cilantro, along with optional ingredients like thinly sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese. This step adds extra freshness and texture to the salad.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Let the cucumber salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld perfectly and enhances the salad’s refreshing and cooling qualities.

Notes

  • Select firm, fresh cucumbers for best crunch and flavor.
  • Pat cucumbers dry after slicing to avoid soggy salad.
  • Adjust acidity of dressing gradually to balance flavors.
  • Make the salad a few hours or overnight ahead to deepen flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs last to maintain bright, vibrant flavor and color.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; drain excess liquid before serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers become mushy.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature; reheating is unnecessary.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, fresh cucumber salad, healthy side dish, light salad, crunchy cucumber, summer salad, easy cucumber recipe, gluten free salad

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/cucumber-salad/