Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy cucumber salad with mayo is the perfect solution. It's a simple yet delicious recipe that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal cooking, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
- Prep the Cucumbers: Wash and peel your cucumbers. Using a spoon, remove the seeds to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Thinly slice the cucumbers. The thinner the slices, the better they'll absorb the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and dill (if using).
- Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to mushy cucumbers.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and refreshing side dish.
Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad:
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: English cucumbers are a great choice as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
- Don't Over-Salt: Add the salt gradually, tasting as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar to your preference. If you like a tangier salad, add a bit more vinegar. For a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar.
- Add Some Crunch: For added texture, consider adding some chopped celery or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Greek Cucumber Salad: Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a healthier twist. Add crumbled feta cheese and some Kalamata olives for an authentic Greek flavor.
- Herby Cucumber Salad: Experiment with different herbs! Parsley, chives, or even mint would be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: Approximately 12g
- Protein: Approximately 2g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
- Fiber: Approximately 1g
This creamy cucumber salad with mayo recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's a fantastic addition to any meal and a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. It’s a simple, healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights and is one of the best recipes for a refreshing and flavorful side dish. Enjoy!