Name: Cucumber Dill Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¾ cup Greek yogurt or plain full-fat yogurt; 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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If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with freshness and flavor, this Cucumber Dill Salad is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a hot day, combining the cool crunch of cucumbers with the vibrant taste of dill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply need a quick and healthy side for dinner during busy weeknights, this salad fits right in. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that even the most novice cooks can whip it up in no time!

This cucumber dill salad has become a staple in my home. Its refreshing taste makes it perfect for summer meals, and it’s versatile enough to complement almost any dish. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can serve this delightful salad in no time.
Family-friendly: Kids love the crunchiness of cucumbers, making it an easy way to add veggies to their meals.
Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge; it gets even better as the flavors meld!
Healthy and refreshing: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Endless variations: Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that this Cucumber Dill Salad requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. No complicated items here—just fresh goodness that comes together beautifully!

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or radishes for an extra layer of texture.
Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Make it heartier: Add some chickpeas or quinoa to turn this salad into a filling main dish.
Herb swap: If dill isn’t your favorite, try using fresh parsley or mint instead for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by placing the yogurt dressing in a small bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This step is key because it ensures that each bite will be creamy and delicious!

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

Next, slice your red onion finely. For the cucumbers, cut them in half lengthwise before slicing each half into thin pieces about 3mm thick. This technique not only makes them easier to eat but also helps them soak up all that yummy dressing!

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large salad bowl, toss all your prepared vegetables together with the dressing. It’s important to mix gently but thoroughly so that every cucumber slice is coated with that tangy goodness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, you can serve your cucumber dill salad at room temperature or keep it chilled until you’re ready to enjoy. Trust me; it’s refreshing either way! This salad invites everyone to dig in, making it perfect for sharing at family gatherings or casual dinners.

And there you have it—a delightful Cucumber Dill Salad that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Dill Salad

Creating the perfect cucumber dill salad is a breeze with a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and dill will enhance the flavor of your salad, making it taste vibrant and more appealing. Look for firm cucumbers with no blemishes for the best crunch.
Chill before serving: Letting your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A cold salad is especially refreshing on a hot day!
Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Taste your dressing and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your palate.
Experiment with additional veggies: Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for added color and flavor. This not only enhances texture but also makes your salad visually appealing.
Make it ahead of time: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes, making it ideal for meal prep or BBQs.

How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad

Serving cucumber dill salad is all about presentation and pairing with complementary dishes that enhance its refreshing qualities. Here are some great ideas!

Garnishes

Fresh dill sprigs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh dill on top not only looks beautiful but also reinforces that delightful herby flavor.
Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add an extra squeeze of citrus if they prefer a tangier kick.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in lemon and herbs pair perfectly with this salad, adding protein and heartiness to your meal.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: A fresh tabbouleh made with quinoa instead of bulgur offers a light, nutritious side that complements the crispness of the cucumber.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings warmth and depth to your table while keeping things healthy and colorful.
Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft pita bread served with creamy hummus creates a wonderful textural contrast alongside the crunchy cucumber dill salad.

Enjoy bringing this delightful dish to your table; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Dill Salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate immediately to maintain freshness.
Consume within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the high water content in cucumbers, which can lead to a soggy texture upon thawing.
If you wish to prepare components ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
If it has been refrigerated, give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh its flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Cucumber Dill Salad that might help you out:

Can I make this Cucumber Dill Salad in advance?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared ahead of time. Just mix all ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It even tastes better after sitting for a while!

What can I serve with Cucumber Dill Salad?

This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish at BBQs. It also complements Mediterranean dishes nicely!

How long does Cucumber Dill Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep it chilled!

Can I use other herbs instead of dill?

Yes! While dill is a classic choice for this salad, feel free to experiment with herbs like parsley or mint if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Cucumber Dill Salad as much as I do! It’s such a simple yet refreshing side that brings brightness to any meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!