Cucumber Dill Salad

Craving a light, refreshing salad that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Cucumber Dill Salad is the perfect solution. Inspired by classic European flavors, this salad is ideal for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a delightful addition to any picnic. Let’s dive into the simple magic of this vibrant dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Dill Salad

This Cucumber Dill Salad is not just another salad; it’s a culinary experience. It’s a symphony of fresh flavors and creamy textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Refreshing Taste: The cool cucumber and fresh dill create a revitalizing flavor profile.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and low in calories.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or snack.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
• Simple Preparation: Easy enough for even beginner cooks.

This Cucumber Dill Salad offers less cleanup and more enjoyment compared to complicated recipes. The aroma of fresh dill will fill your kitchen, creating a welcoming, comforting atmosphere. It’s an irresistible and effortless way to bring a bit of freshnes to your table.

Ingredients Needed for Cucumber Dill Salad

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious salad. Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Cucumber Dill Salad:

• 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced (approximately 500g/2 cups). Select firm cucumbers for the best texture.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (120g). Opt for full-fat or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (15g). Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but dried dill (1 tablespoon) can be used in a pinch.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml). Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for its vibrant taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml). Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity note.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g). Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g). Freshly ground black pepper is ideal.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional) (50g). Adds a tangy bite.

For the freshest dill, check your local farmers’ market. Lightly toast the salt and pepper in a dry pan for a few seconds to unlock their flavor before adding to the salad.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe – A delightful combination for summer days.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes preparing this salad a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Medium bowl: For mixing the ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife for slicing cucumbers and red onion.
• Cutting board: To protect your countertops while slicing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

A mandoline slicer (optional) can ensure uniform cucumber slices, but a good knife works just as well. A glass bowl (optional) is great for refrigerating the salad as it doesn’t absorb odors.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this Cucumber Dill Salad:

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes

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• Refrigeration Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a larger gathering; halve the recipe for a smaller portion. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later (see storage instructions below).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cucumber Dill Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a truly delicious Cucumber Dill Salad. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, yogurt, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add Red Onion (Optional)

If using, add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl. The red onion adds a delightful tangy bite.

Step 3: Toss Gently

Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cucumbers watery.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor.

Step 5: Final Toss and Serve

Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tip: For an even more intense flavor, prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the dill and lemon to fully infuse the cucumbers.

CHECK OUT: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad – A tangy twist on the classic.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cucumber Dill Salad is a resounding success, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid Watery Salad: Salt the cucumbers lightly and let them sit in a colander for 15 minutes before mixing to draw out excess moisture.
• Use Fresh Dill: Dried dill can be used, but fresh dill provides the best flavor and aroma.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes is essential for the flavors to meld properly.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing can make the cucumbers release too much water, resulting in a soggy salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.

Beginners can pre-measure all ingredients to make the process even smoother. A microplane zester (optional) can quickly zest the lemon for extra flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Cucumber Dill Salad? Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

• Creamy Delight: Substitute the plain yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
• Herb Boost: Add other fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or chives for a more complex flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Vinegar Twist: Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice for a different tangy flavor.
• Diet-Friendly: Use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Consider adding a dash of cumin for an earthy kick. Remember, honey can be used instead of salt, but it will result in a stickier salad. Get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cucumber Dill Salad

This Cucumber Dill Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• • Grilled Fish: The refreshing salad complements the richness of grilled salmon or trout.
  • Roasted Chicken: A perfect side dish to balance the savory flavors of roasted chicken.
  • Sandwiches & Wraps: Add it to sandwiches or wraps for a light, flavorful filling.

• BBQ: A refreshing addition to any barbecue spread.

Pair it with sparkling water with a lemon slice for a light, refreshing meal. This salad is a summer feast stunner, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Health Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, this Cucumber Dill Salad is packed with health benefits:

• Cucumbers: Rich in vitamins K and C, and provide hydration.
• Dill: Contains antioxidants and aids digestion.
• Yogurt: A good source of protein and probiotics, promoting gut health.

The fiber in cucumbers aids digestion, while yogurt provides essential nutrients. It’s a low-carb option perfect for those following a keto lifestyle. This salad is a nutritional powerhouse!

Storage & Reheating

To keep your Cucumber Dill Salad fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the cucumbers will become mushy.

Cool the salad completely before sealing it to prevent condensation. Reheating isn’t necessary; it’s best enjoyed chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Dill Salad:

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough bowl to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.

How do I avoid a watery salad?

Salting the cucumbers and letting them drain in a colander before mixing will help remove excess moisture. Also, don’t over-mix the salad.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried dill, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried dill for every 1/4 cup of fresh dill.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute with an equal amount of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional snapshot of one serving of Cucumber Dill Salad:

• Serving Size: About 1 cup
• Calories: 78
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 5mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 2g

Exact stats may vary based on ingredient brands. Carbs primarily come from natural sugars in cucumbers and yogurt. Enjoy this healthy and delicious salad!

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more refreshing and flavorful dishes? Try these gems!

• Refreshing Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe – A classic combination of summer flavors.
• Easy Asian Cucumber Salad – A tangy and zesty twist on the traditional recipe.
• Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe – A richer, more indulgent take on this classic salad.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Dill Salad is a fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Cucumber Dill Salad

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• Author: Mery
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A refreshing and easy Cucumber Dill Salad perfect for any occasion! This classic recipe is ready in minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, yogurt, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. If using, add the sliced red onion to the bowl.
3. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

• Pro Tip: For an even more intense flavor, prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator.
• Variation: Substitute the plain yogurt with sour cream for a richer flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 78 cal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: cucumber dill salad, salad recipe, easy salad, healthy salad, summer salad