Refreshing, crunchy, and tangy, this cucumber dill salad is a cooling bowl of goodness. It’s a healthy side dish perfect for summer meals and BBQs! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something light, this salad delivers delightful flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh cucumbers and dill brings a burst of flavor to your table.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or serve it as a refreshing snack.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Low in calories yet high in flavor, it fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
- Mediterranean Flair: Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Mediterranean cuisine right at home.
Tools and Preparation
To make this cucumber dill salad effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing cucumbers and onions quick and easy, ensuring even cuts.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- ¾ cup (150 grams) Greek yogurt or plain full-fat
- 1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic, grated
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ⅕ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ lb (670 grams) cucumbers, sliced (I used 2 long English cucumbers)
- ½ red onion, finely sliced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 2: Slice the Vegetables
Slice the red onion thinly. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 3mm / 1/8 thick pieces.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and onions. Pour in the dressing and toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Serve or Refrigerate
You can serve the cucumber dill salad at room temperature or keep it refrigerated until serving. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite meals!
How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad
Cucumber dill salad is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad can elevate your dining experience.
As a Refreshing Side Dish
- Grilled meats – This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, providing a cool contrast to the smoky flavors.
- Sandwiches – Serve it alongside turkey, ham, or veggie sandwiches for a crunchy bite that enhances your meal.
As a Light Lunch
- With pita bread – Enjoy this salad with warm pita and hummus for a light yet satisfying lunch option.
- On top of greens – Use the cucumber dill salad as a topping on mixed greens for added texture and flavor.
As Part of a Picnic Spread
- In wraps – Include the salad in wraps with your choice of protein for a refreshing twist.
- With cheese platters – Pair it with various cheeses and crackers for an elegant picnic option.
How to Perfect Cucumber Dill Salad
To make your cucumber dill salad even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Bold ingredients – Use fresh, high-quality cucumbers and dill for the best flavor.
- Chill before serving – Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for an ideal balance.
- Experiment with additions – Consider adding tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Dill Salad
Cucumber dill salad can be complemented by various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds delightful sweetness and is easy to prepare on the grill.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – A nutritious grain-based salad that pairs well with the refreshing flavors of cucumber dill.
- Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes provide hearty satisfaction alongside the lightness of the salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – These colorful veggies filled with rice or meat bring additional flavors to your table.
- Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella and basil skewers offer Italian flair while complementing the cucumber’s crunch.
- Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread adds comfort and pairs nicely with any Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best cucumber dill salad, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key for flavor. Always choose fresh cucumbers and herbs to enhance your salad.
- Skipping the salt: Salt brings out the flavors in your cucumber dill salad. Don’t skip it; just use it sparingly to avoid over-salting.
- Not chilling the salad: While this salad can be served at room temperature, chilling it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Make sure to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Overdressing the salad: Less is more when it comes to dressing. Start with a small amount and add more if needed to prevent sogginess.
- Ignoring texture: For the best crunch, slice cucumbers thinly but not too thin. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick for a perfect bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: The cucumber dill salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh and prevent odors from other foods.
Freezing Cucumber Dill Salad
- Not recommended: Freezing cucumber dill salad is not ideal due to the high water content in cucumbers which can lead to a mushy texture upon thawing.
Reheating Cucumber Dill Salad
- Oven: This dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary.
- Microwave: If you prefer warmth, microwave in short bursts (10-15 seconds) on low power, but be cautious not to cook it.
- Stovetop: Similar to microwave heating, use a non-stick skillet on low heat and stir gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different herbs in my cucumber dill salad?
Yes! While dill is traditional, feel free to experiment with parsley or mint for a unique twist on flavors.
How do I make my cucumber dill salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative that has similar consistency.
What can I serve with cucumber dill salad?
Cucumber dill salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a refreshing side for BBQs.
How do I store leftover cucumber dill salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This cucumber dill salad is a delightful blend of refreshing flavors and crunchy textures. Its simplicity makes it versatile enough for any meal—whether as a side dish at summer barbecues or a light lunch option. Don’t hesitate to customize it further by adding cherry tomatoes or feta cheese for extra flavor! Enjoy making this healthy dish that everyone will love.
Cucumber Dill Salad
- Total Time: 46 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Cucumber dill salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that perfectly complements summer meals and barbecues. Bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh cucumbers and aromatic dill, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also healthy and versatile. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a delightful bowl that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or serves as a light snack. The creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt adds a tangy twist, making this salad an instant crowd-pleaser for gatherings or casual dinners. Enjoy the Mediterranean flair of this tasty dish while keeping your meals light and nutritious.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt (or plain full-fat)
- 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon grated garlic
- 1 ½ pounds cucumbers (sliced)
- ½ red onion (finely sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by mixing Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise and then cut into thin slices. Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions, pour in the dressing, and toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: For extra crunch, aim for cucumber slices about 1/8 inch thick. Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor variations. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.