Cucumber Dill Salad

Refreshing, crunchy, and tangy, this Cucumber Dill Salad is a cooling bowl of goodness. Perfect for summer meals and BBQs, it adds a vibrant touch to any occasion. With its simple ingredients and fresh flavors, this salad is both healthy and enjoyable for everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This salad can be made in just 10 minutes, making it a great last-minute side dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of cucumbers and dill provides a refreshing taste that complements many main courses.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it at room temperature or chilled; it’s perfect for picnics or family dinners.
• Healthy Choice: With Greek yogurt as a base, it’s lower in calories while still being creamy and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cucumber Dill Salad, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your cucumbers and onions, enhancing the presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing vegetables.
• Salad serving bowl: This makes it easy to toss and serve your salad beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup (150 grams) Greek yogurt or plain full-fat
• 1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon garlic, grated
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ⅕ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

• 1 ½ lb (670 grams) cucumbers, sliced (I used 2 long English cucumbers)
• ½ red onion, finely sliced
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small mixing bowl, place the Greek yogurt along with olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until well combined and smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

1. Take the cucumbers and cut them in half lengthwise.
2. Slice each cucumber half into thin pieces about 3mm / 1/8 thick.
3. Finely slice the red onion.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large salad bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables.
3. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your salad at room temperature or refrigerate until you are ready to enjoy it. This salad is best served chilled but can also be enjoyed immediately!

Enjoy this delightful Cucumber Dill Salad as a refreshing addition to your next meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad

Cucumber dill salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side to Grilled Meats

• Chicken Skewers – The coolness of the salad complements the warmth of grilled chicken, making for a delightful contrast.
• Lamb Chops – Serve alongside juicy lamb chops for a Mediterranean twist that balances flavors perfectly.

With Fish Dishes

• Grilled Salmon – The tangy notes of the salad enhance the rich taste of salmon, creating a refreshing balance.
• Baked Cod – Pair with light, flaky cod to elevate your meal with fresh flavors and textures.

On Its Own

• Light Lunch Option – Enjoy it solo for a quick and nutritious lunch that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
• Picnic Delight – Pack it in your picnic basket for an easy-to-eat side that brightens any outdoor gathering.

How to Perfect Cucumber Dill Salad

To ensure your cucumber dill salad shines at the table, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate the dish and enhance its flavors.

• Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh cucumbers and dill for the best flavor and crunch. This makes a noticeable difference.
• Chill Before Serving – Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances its refreshing qualities.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Add Crunch – Consider adding nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds for an extra layer of texture and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Dill Salad

Cucumber dill salad pairs well with various dishes, enhancing any meal you serve. Here are some excellent side dishes you can try alongside this refreshing salad.

1. Quinoa Pilaf – A light, fluffy quinoa dish cooked with herbs that adds depth to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and earthy flavors that complement the freshness of the salad.
3. Hummus & Pita Bread – Creamy hummus served with warm pita offers a delightful dip option alongside your salad.
4. Tabbouleh Salad – A bulgur-based salad filled with parsley, tomatoes, and lemon—an excellent pairing for Mediterranean meals.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy cucumber dill salad.
6. Vegetable Samosas – Crispy samosas provide a savory bite that works well with the coolness of the cucumber salad.
7. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers create an appealing appetizer that matches nicely.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers offer heartiness while still allowing the freshness of the cucumber dill salad to shine through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Cucumber Dill Salad, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using old cucumbers – Fresh cucumbers are crucial for texture and flavor. Always choose firm, vibrant ones.
• Skipping the salt – Salt enhances flavors in your dressing and salad. Don’t skip it; just balance to taste.
• Not chilling before serving – While you can serve it right away, letting the salad chill improves its taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes if possible.
• Overdressing the salad – Too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more if needed.
• Neglecting fresh herbs – Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor. Dried dill won’t provide the same freshness, so opt for fresh whenever possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Dill Salad

• Not recommended since cucumbers may become mushy when thawed.
• If necessary, keep the dressing separate and freeze only the solid components.

Reheating Cucumber Dill Salad

• Oven – Not applicable; this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave – Avoid reheating; it alters texture and taste negatively.
• Stovetop – Not suitable for this salad; enjoy it chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Dill Salad.

What ingredients are essential for Cucumber Dill Salad?

The essential ingredients include cucumbers, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, red onion, and fresh dill. These create a refreshing flavor profile.

Can I make Cucumber Dill Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

How do I customize my Cucumber Dill Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes. You can also adjust the herbs according to your taste!

Is Cucumber Dill Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories yet packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Dill Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile enough to complement various meals. Feel free to experiment with different veggies or dressings to suit your preferences. Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next gathering!

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Cucumber Dill Salad

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 32 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cucumber Dill Salad is the ultimate refreshing side dish, perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs. This vibrant salad combines crisp cucumbers with a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh dill. Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to add a healthy yet flavorful option to their meals. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. With its delightful crunch and tangy taste, Cucumber Dill Salad is sure to be a hit at your next picnic or family dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ¾ cup Greek yogurt or plain full-fat
• 1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon garlic, grated
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ⅕ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ lb cucumbers, sliced
• ½ red onion, finely sliced
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Slice cucumbers lengthwise and then into thin pieces; finely slice the red onion.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until well coated.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider mixing in nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds. Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes enhances its flavors. Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.