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Make Perfect Cucumber Salad
cucumber salad
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2-3 medium cucumbers (English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers preferred)
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons white vinegar (or rice vinegar)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions:
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Crumbled feta cheese
Sliced radishes
Before We Start
Choose the Right Cucumbers:
Use seedless cucumbers like English or Persian cucumbers for the best texture and less water content.
Slice Thinly and Evenly:
Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin cucumber slices to make the salad visually appealing and easier to eat.
Salt the Cucumbers:
Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before mixing to draw out excess water, preventing a soggy salad.
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh dill and crisp cucumbers elevate the salad's flavors.
Chill Before Serving:
Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumbers
Step 1: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Grab a knife and slice the cucumbers thinly and evenly, or use a mandoline slicer.
Step 2: If desired, sprinkle a little salt on the slices and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Drain any released water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Prepare the Onion
Step 3: Slice the onion thinly with a knife or slicer. For a milder flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes and then drain.
Make the Dressing
Step 4: In a bowl, combine white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches.
What Goes with Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a refreshing and healthy option that pairs well with:
Pita bread
Falafel
Grilled meats
Recipes Related to Cucumber Salad
Asian Cucumber Salad
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly.
In a small bowl, add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey. Whisk it well, then add the cucumber slices and coat evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a tangy, savory delight.
Korean Cucumber Salad
A Oi Muchim – A Korean Recipe
Use slices of cucumber with gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), sesame oil, garlic, and soy sauce.
Sprinkle sesame seeds over it for a spicy, authentic flavor.
Spicy Cucumber Salad
Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly.
Add them to a bowl with chili flakes, lime juice, and a little sugar.
Add cilantro for a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with grilled dishes.
Cucumber Salad with Mayo
Use washed cucumbers and slice them thinly.
In a bowl, add thinly sliced onions and enough mayonnaise.
Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar or lime juice for a classic taste.
Japanese Cucumber Salad
A Sunomono Salad
Wash the cucumber and slice it thinly. Add it to a bowl with a little rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.
Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
Top with wakame seaweed and sesame seeds for a light, umami-packed salad.
Cucumber Salad from Din Tai Fung
This iconic dish is made with thinly sliced, washed cucumber in a bowl.
Add garlic, chili oil, soy sauce, and vinegar.
Coat evenly, then chill for an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Conclusion
Wash the cucumber and onion thoroughly. Take a knife and cut thin slices or use a mandoline slicer. If desired, sprinkle seasoning salt on the cucumber slices and let them rest for 10–15 minutes. Drain any released water and pat dry. Soak onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain.
In a bowl, combine white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
Take a large bowl and mix the dressing with cucumber and onion slices. Coat everything evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, then serve chilled.
Enjoy this salad as a refreshing snack or pair it with grilled fish, sandwiches, or your favorite dish!
For More Recipes, Check Out:
How to make pizza at home
P.S. Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more recipes, tips, and ideas! 🌿
FAQs
What ingredients are used in cucumber salad?
The basics include fresh cucumbers, seasonings (like salt, pepper, or chili flakes), and a dressing (vinegar, soy sauce, or mayo). Add-ons like onions, herbs, sesame seeds, or spices can elevate the flavor.
How to prepare cucumber?
1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly.2. Peel (optional) and slice into thin rounds or strips.3. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water, ensuring a crunchier salad.
How to use cucumber in salads?
Cucumbers pair well with ingredients like tomatoes, onions, herbs, and proteins like grilled chicken or tofu. They’re also excellent as the star ingredient with minimal seasonings.
Cucumber salad dressing?
For Tangy Salads: Rice vinegar, lime juice, or lemon juice with a touch of honey or sugar.
For Creamy Salads: Mayonnaise, yogurt, or sour cream with garlic and dill.
For Spicy Salads: Chili oil, soy sauce, or red pepper flakes with sesame oil.
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