Cucumber Salad: 10 Minutes to a Perfect Refreshing Side

The Best Refreshing Cucumber Salad

I can still hear the cicadas buzzing and feel the heavy summer heat at our old family reunions. My aunt always brought this massive bowl of cucumber salad and it was always the first thing to disappear. It is my absolute favorite way to cool down when the kitchen feels like an oven. The crunch is just incredible and it feels so fresh. I make it at least twice a week now because it just hits the spot every single time and brings back those happy memories.

Why You Will Love This Cucumber Salad

You are going to obsess over this cucumber salad. It is super low in calories so you can eat a huge portion without feeling heavy. It takes almost no time to throw together when you are in a rush. Plus the ingredients are really cheap at any grocery store. It is the perfect side dish for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cucumber Salad

• Fresh English or Persian cucumbers
• Red onions sliced thinly
• Fresh dill or parsley
• Apple cider vinegar which is a great alternative to wine vinegar
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Honey or maple syrup for balance
• Salt and black pepper to taste

The Secret to Crunchy Cucumbers

You really have to get those slices even if you want that professional feel. If some are thick and some are thin the texture is just all over the place. I always use a mandoline slicer to get them paper thin and perfectly uniform. That is the real secret to getting that maximum crunch in every single bite.

Making the Tangy Dressing

Just grab a small bowl and start whisking. You want to make sure the honey or syrup really blends in with the oil and vinegar. I love using a bit of fresh lemon juice to make the flavors pop. If you want a really deep and savory flavor you can even add a tiny splash of vegetable broth instead of any alcohol based liquids.

How to Make Cucumber Salad Step-by-Step

• 1. Prep the Veggies. Wash your cucumbers well and slice them along with the onions.
• 2. Whisk the Base. Combine your apple cider vinegar and oil and sweetener in a large bowl.
• 3. Toss Together. Add the vegetables and fresh herbs to the bowl and stir gently to coat everything.
• 4. Chill Time. Let the dish sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

• Prevent Wateriness. Salt the cucumbers beforehand and let them drain in a colander for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
• Herb Variations. If you do not like dill you should try fresh mint for an even more refreshing twist.
• Beef Pairing. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled beef or roasted chicken for a full meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Salad

How long does this stay fresh in the fridge?

You can store it in an airtight container for up to two days. It is definitely best served within a few hours if you want the best crunch though.

Can I use regular garden cucumbers?

Yes you can. Just make sure to peel the thick skin and scoop out the large seeds so you do not get a bitter taste.

Nutritional Information for Cucumber Salad

• Calories: 85 kcal
• Total Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

The prep time for this is only 10 minutes. The total time including the chilling is about 30 minutes. I promise you that the wait is totally worth the flavor you get in the end.

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