Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This mini cucumber salad recipe is the perfect solution. Bursting with fresh, crisp cucumbers and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing, it's a crowd-pleaser that takes just minutes to prepare. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. It’s one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly satisfying and always a hit.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a richer flavor)
- 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. If you prefer, you can use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even slices. Thinner slices will absorb the dressing better and create a more tender salad.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently toss together the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might prefer a bit more vinegar for extra tang or a touch more sugar for sweetness.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you don't want to bruise the cucumbers.
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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 a truly delicious salad, as it allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing and soften slightly. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Mini Cucumber Salad:
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Salt the Cucumbers (Optional): For extra crisp cucumbers, you can salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes before rinsing and proceeding with the recipe. This helps draw out excess moisture.
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Variety of Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or mint. Each will add a unique flavor profile to your salad.
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Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dressing for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
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Add Protein: For a more substantial side dish or light meal, consider adding cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or crumbled feta cheese.
Variations:
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Creamy Cucumber Salad: Substitute mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for the olive oil for a creamier dressing.
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Dill Pickle Cucumber Salad: Add 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill pickles to the salad for a briny twist.
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Lemon Cucumber Salad: Replace the white wine vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 60-70
- Fat: 5-6g
- Carbohydrates: 7-8g
- Protein: 1-2g
This mini cucumber salad is a simple yet elegant addition to any meal. Its refreshing taste and vibrant colors make it a delightful choice for both casual and formal gatherings. Enjoy this delicious and healthy recipe!