The Best Cucumber Salad Recipe

Savor the simplicity of our cucumber salad recipe, a symphony of freshness and crunch. Crisp cucumbers mingle with vibrant cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a medley of garden herbs. Dressed in a light vinaigrette, this refreshing dish is a celebration of summer’s bounty, bringing a burst of flavor to your table.

See Also: Summer Salads Recipes

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Grab my favorite tools:

• Chef’s Knife
• Flexible Cutting Boards
• Vegetable Peeler
• Serving Bowls

Why you will love The Best Cucumber Salad

You’ll love cucumber salad for its refreshing crispness, a perfect harmony of balanced flavors, and its ability to adapt to diverse cuisines. Embrace its healthy profile, quick preparation, and versatility, bringing a light, vibrant touch to your meals. Whether paired with grilled meats or enjoyed solo, it offers a delicious alternative to the typical salad.

Ingredients for The Best Cucumber Salad:

• Cucumbers sliced with skin on
• Cherry Tomatoes Cut in half 
• Purple onion finely diced 
• 3 Tbs oil – I use Avocado oil
• 2 Tbs Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 pkg Splenda or sweetener of choice
• Salt and pepper to taste

See Also: 50+ Best Winter Salad Recipes

See Also: The Best Basil Pesto Recipe

How to Make The Best Cucumber Salad:

• Prepare the Cucumbers:
• Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. If using English or Persian cucumbers, there’s no need to peel. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you might want to peel and remove the seeds for a milder taste.
• Salt the Cucumbers:
• Place the cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
• Prepare the Vinaigrette:
• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your liking.
• Combine Ingredients:
• In a large bowl, combine the salted cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, dill, and parsley.
• Dress the Salad:
• Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
• Chill Before Serving:
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cucumber salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
• Serve:
• Give the salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with additional dill or parsley if desired.

See Also: The Best Mashed Potatoes EVER

Combine all ingredients and let sit for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.  Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Variations of The Best Cucumber Salad:

• Greek Cucumber Salad:
  • Combine cucumbers with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onions, and cherry tomatoes. Toss in a Greek dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
• Asian Cucumber Salad:
  • Mix cucumbers with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds. Add sliced radishes or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
• Creamy Cucumber Salad:
  • Create a creamy version with cucumbers, sour cream or Greek yogurt, dill, and a splash of white wine vinegar. Add red onions for a zesty kick.
• Spicy Cucumber Salad:
  • Infuse heat with sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Mix cucumbers with lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of honey for balance.
• Mango Cucumber Salad:
  • Combine cucumbers with ripe mango chunks, red onions, and cilantro. Dress with lime juice and a pinch of chili powder for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Tzatziki Cucumber Salad:
  • Incorporate the flavors of tzatziki by combining cucumbers with Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. Ideal as a refreshing side dish.
• Cucumber and Avocado Salad:
  • Pair cucumbers with creamy avocado slices. Drizzle with a lime vinaigrette and add red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor.
• Dill Pickle Cucumber Salad:
  • Embrace the tangy taste of dill pickles by incorporating them into the salad. Combine with cucumbers, red onions, and a mustard-based dressing.
• Caprese Cucumber Salad:
  • Create a twist on the classic Caprese by mixing cucumbers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added depth.
• Cucumber and Watermelon Salad:
  • Combine cucumber slices with juicy watermelon cubes. Add feta cheese, mint, and a splash of lime juice for a sweet and savory combination.

See Also: The Best Short Ribs Recipe

Quick Tips:

• Choose the Right Cucumbers:
  • Opt for English or Persian cucumbers for a milder flavor and thinner skin. These varieties don’t require peeling and contribute to a crisp texture.
• Salt and Drain:
  • To prevent the salad from becoming too watery, salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels.
• Balance Flavors:
  • Achieve a well-balanced flavor profile by combining the freshness of cucumbers with the sweetness of tomatoes, the crunch of red onions, and the herbs of your choice.
• Customize the Dressing:
  • Use a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar (white wine or apple cider), a touch of honey or sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the dressing to your taste.
• Fresh Herbs:
  • Add a burst of freshness with herbs like dill, mint, or cilantro. These herbs complement the cucumbers and enhance the overall taste.
• Experiment with Variations:
  • Feel free to experiment with different variations by adding ingredients like feta cheese, olives, avocado, or even fruits like mango or watermelon for unique flavor combinations.
• Chill Before Serving:
  • Refrigerate the cucumber salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld, and the salad becomes more refreshing.
• Serve Immediately:
  • Cucumber salad is best when served fresh. If prepared in advance, add delicate ingredients like herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrancy.
• Adjust Seasoning:
  • Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a dash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor.
• Garnish for Appeal:
  • Garnish the salad with additional herbs, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving for a visually appealing and flavorful touch.

How to Store Cucumber Salad:

On the off chance that there are leftovers, store cucumber salad by placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator promptly. Choose a container with a tight-sealing lid to preserve crispness. If possible, store the dressing separately and combine it with the salad just before serving. Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Re-toss before serving leftovers.

FAQ:

What are the best cucumbers to use in a cucumber salad?

For a perfect cucumber salad, opt for English cucumbers, known for their mild flavor and thin skin, eliminating the need for peeling. Persian cucumbers are also ideal, contributing a crisp texture. Both varieties enhance the salad’s freshness and appeal.

What are the ingredients for a cucumber salad?

To craft a delicious cucumber salad, gather fresh cucumbers, preferably English or Persian, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a mix of garden herbs like dill and mint. Combine with a light vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey, salt, and pepper for a refreshing medley of flavors.

Does cucumber salad need to be refrigerated?

Yes, it’s crucial to refrigerate cucumber salad promptly. The cool temperature helps maintain freshness and crispness, preserving the vibrant flavors. Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container, ensuring it stays chilled until serving, enhancing its overall appeal.

How long does it take to make cucumber salad?

Crafting a cucumber salad is quick and easy, typically taking around 15 minutes. With minimal prep, slice fresh cucumbers, chop tomatoes and herbs, then toss with a light vinaigrette. This speedy process ensures a delightful, refreshing salad ready to be enjoyed in no time.

How do you keep cucumber salad from getting soggy?

To prevent cucumber salad from getting soggy, salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Afterward, pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before combining them with other ingredients and dressing, ensuring a crisp and refreshing texture.

Serve Cucumber Salad with:

• Grilled Meats:
  • Pair with chicken, steak, or lamb for a refreshing contrast.
• Seafood:
  • Complement grilled or baked fish, shrimp, or other seafood dishes.
• Barbecue:
  • Add a cool, crunchy element to barbecue meals like ribs or pulled pork.
• Sandwiches and Wraps:
  • Use as a topping for sandwiches or wraps for added crunch.
• Burgers:
  • Serve as a side with classic beef, turkey, or vegetarian burgers.
• Grain Bowls:
  • Include in grain bowls with quinoa, rice, or couscous.
• Mediterranean Dishes:
  • Pair with falafel, gyros, or kebabs for a fresh component.
• Asian Cuisine:
  • Serve alongside Asian dishes like sushi, teriyaki chicken, or stir-fried tofu.
• Summer Picnics:
  • Bring as a refreshing side to summer picnics.
• Meatless Meals:
  • Complement vegetarian or vegan dishes for added flavor and texture.

This Post Was All About the Best Cucumber Salad Recipe

The cucumber salad is a versatile and refreshing addition to any meal. From classic combinations to international twists, its crisp texture and vibrant colors make it a go-to choice.

Enjoy the simplicity and endless possibilities of this humble dish, offering a burst of flavor and satisfaction in every bite.

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