Cool, Crisp, and Refreshing: The Ultimate Cucumber Salad
Few dishes capture the essence of simplicity and freshness like a Cucumber Salad. With its bright crunch, light dressing, and subtle tang, this timeless classic offers a perfect balance between clean, crisp textures and vibrant flavor. Whether served alongside grilled meats, spicy curries, or as a refreshing standalone dish, cucumber salad has a universal appeal that transcends seasons and cuisines.
In this post, we’ll explore how to make a perfectly balanced cucumber salad — one that’s creamy yet light, tangy yet mellow, and crisp to the very last bite. This recipe includes step-by-step preparation, tips for keeping the cucumbers extra crunchy, and a few creative variations to suit any occasion.
🥒 Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
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Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.
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Refreshing and light: Perfect for warm days or to balance rich, hearty dishes.
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Customizable: Works beautifully with creamy, vinegary, or spicy dressings.
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Make-ahead friendly: Flavors improve as it chills, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salad:
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2 large English cucumbers (or 4–5 small Persian cucumbers)
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½ small red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Dressing Options:
🥗 Classic Tangy Dressing:
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3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or honey)
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½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, finely minced
🥛 Creamy Dressing (optional alternative):
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
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1 teaspoon sugar
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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