This refreshing cucumber salad is a breeze to make! It’s crunchy, cool, and packed with flavor from fresh herbs and a zesty dressing. Perfect for warm days!
I love to serve this salad alongside grilled foods. It adds a nice, crisp touch! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Enjoy it at picnics! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for a sweeter flavor and thinner skin, or try Persian cucumbers for a similar taste. If you only have regular cucumbers, just peel them for a milder taste.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice color and mild flavor. If you want less bite, try using green onions instead, or soak sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them.
Dill and Chives: Fresh herbs brighten the salad. For a different twist, try replacing dill with parsley or cilantro, depending on your taste!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is great for a fruity kick, but you can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if that’s what you have.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Cucumber Salad?
The key to maximizing flavor lies in letting the salad marinate. After tossing it with the dressing, aim for at least 15 minutes of resting! This helps the cucumbers soak up the vinegar and spices.
- Keep the salad refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. This maintains the crunchiness!
- If you’re preparing it ahead, do not add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from wilting.
Easy Fresh Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh cucumber salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Just slice, mix, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in all the flavors. If you chill it longer, that’s even better! Total time including chilling: around 30-45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Vegetables:
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Make sure the slices are even so that they mix well later. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add the chopped fresh dill and chives to the bowl with the cucumbers and onions. These herbs will give your salad a lovely fresh flavor!
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved in the liquid.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing evenly.
5. Add Olive Oil (Optional):
If you’d like a little extra richness, drizzle the olive oil over the salad and give it another gentle toss. This step is optional but adds a nice touch!
6. Let It Marinate:
Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the cucumber salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal!
Enjoy this simple, vibrant salad that perfectly showcases fresh cucumbers and herbs!
FAQ – Easy Fresh Cucumber Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until right before serving. This prevents the cucumbers from becoming too soft.
What Can I Use Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or lemon juice works well too! Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, but all will be delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed within this time for optimal freshness and crunchiness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or grated carrots. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
