Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This Italian Cucumber Salad is the perfect solution. It's bursting with fresh flavors, requires minimal cooking time, and is a fantastic healthy meal addition. Perfect for hot summer days or as a vibrant accompaniment to any dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will have you whipping up delicious homemade dishes in minutes. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Cucumbers and Onion: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. You can use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. For a less intense onion flavor, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This helps to remove some of the sharpness.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Combine and Marinate: Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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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! The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with your favorite Italian entrees, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a delightful textural element to this already delicious salad.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. Feel free to adjust to your spice preference.
- Make it creamy: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream stirred into the dressing adds a creamy richness.
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or chives.
- Use different types of cucumbers: English cucumbers work well, too, as they have fewer seeds.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 2g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Italian Cucumber Salad is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are quick and easy to make. It's the perfect addition to any meal, offering a burst of fresh flavors and a delightful crunch. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste, making it a staple in our household. Enjoy!