Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further! This healthy cucumber salad recipe is the perfect addition to any meal, from a light lunch to a summer barbecue. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. This delicious dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier side dishes. Get ready to elevate your meal game with this incredibly easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prep the Cucumbers and Onion: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. To prevent the cucumbers from getting watery, you can gently salt them and let them sit in a colander for about 10-15 minutes. Then, rinse and pat them dry. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, dill, and mint.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This allows the cucumbers to fully absorb the delicious dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad:
- Choose the right cucumbers: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best for this salad as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, resulting in a more tender and flavorful salad.
- Don't overdress: Start with less dressing and add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Get creative with herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Variations:
- Creamy Cucumber Salad: For a richer, creamier version, add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
- Feta Cucumber Salad: Crumble some feta cheese over the salad for a salty and tangy twist.
- Tomato Cucumber Salad: Add chopped tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This healthy cucumber salad is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea or a refreshing side dish for any occasion. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious and healthy addition to your diet. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something fresh and satisfying. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, and spices to create your perfect version. It’s one of the best recipes for a light and flavorful meal.