Cucumber salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
With its crisp texture and light flavors, it can serve as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for making cucumber salad at home.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers: 2 English cucumbers, very thinly sliced
- Onion: ½ large red onion, very thinly sliced
- Vinegar: ¼ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Sweetener: 1 tablespoon honey or granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional: chopped fresh chives for garnish)
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers and Onion:
- Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. A mandoline slicer is ideal for achieving uniform, paper-thin slices, but a sharp knife will work as well.
- Salt the Cucumbers:
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Allow them to sit for about 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, intensifying their flavor and preventing the salad from becoming watery.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, honey (or sugar), and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
- After the cucumbers have released some water, drain them and rinse under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Toss the cucumbers and onions with the dressing until evenly coated. Add in the chopped dill for extra flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled as a side dish or enjoy it as a light lunch.
Variations
Feel free to customize your cucumber salad with additional ingredients such as:
- Creamy Option: Add ¼ cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Asian Twist: Use rice vinegar and add sesame oil, soy sauce, and chopped peanuts for an Asian-inspired version.
Conclusion
This cucumber salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want a light meal, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own!
