Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This creamy cucumber salad recipe is the perfect solution. It's bursting with fresh, crisp cucumber, tangy vinegar, and a luscious mayonnaise dressing. This simple recipe is ideal for beginner cooks and a delightful addition to any summer barbecue, potluck, or weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and healthy side dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and color
Instructions:
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Prep the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Peel them, and using a spoon or vegetable peeler, remove the seeds. Thinly slice the cucumbers using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife for even pieces. The thinner the slices, the better they'll absorb the dressing.
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Combine the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar; for a tangier version, add a touch more vinegar.
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Mix it Up: Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure all the cucumber slices are evenly coated. If adding red onion, add it now and toss again.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to become delightfully chilled. This step is crucial for the best flavor. Serve cold as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad:
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal for this recipe because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, resulting in a less watery salad.
- Don't Over-Salt: Add salt gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid making the salad too salty.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives, parsley, or even mint for a unique twist.
- Add Some Crunch: Toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds would add a delightful crunch to the salad.
Variations:
- Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Greek Cucumber Salad: Substitute red wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar and add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Dill Pickle Cucumber Salad: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped dill pickles to the salad for a more intense dill flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise and additions)
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This creamy cucumber salad is a simple and delicious side dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's quick to make, healthy, and incredibly refreshing – a true crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!