Description
A refreshing and creamy cucumber salad with a zesty dill dressing, perfect for a vegetarian side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cucumbers (about 450g), firm and fresh
- 1/2 sweet white onion (about 75g), thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup (80g) finely chopped fresh dill
- 11/2 teaspoon garlic clove, minced
- 1/3 cup (80g) mayonnaise
- 11/2 teaspoon sugar
- 11/2 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix Dressing Ingredients: Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, garlic, and fresh dill in a small bowl. This should smell refreshing and zesty as you go. Mixing thoroughly helps to create a smooth dressing that coats your veggies nicely. Just make sure there are no lumps, or your dressing might look a bit uneven.
- Prepare Cucumbers: Take your salted cucumber slices and pat them dry with a paper towel. They should feel a bit firmer after releasing moisture. This step is crucial to avoid ending up with a watery salad. Be careful not to skip the drying process, since extra moisture can make your dressing thin.
- Combine Cucumbers & Dressing: In a large bowl, toss the cucumber slices with your creamy dressing. You want everything to be evenly coated, which should feel satisfying to mix. This step marries the flavors and ensures each bite is delicious. You might want to watch out for over-mixing, as it could break down the cucumbers.
- Chill Before Serving: Let your salad sit in the fridge for about an hour. You’ll notice it getting a little firmer and the flavors melding. Chilling makes everything taste even better! Just remember, if you’re planning to serve it later, don’t let it sit for too long, or the cucumbers may lose their crunch.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for only up to a day, as it can become watery if left overnight.
- Expert Tips: Salting the cucumber slices before mixing can help draw out excess moisture, preventing the salad from becoming watery. If the taste feels bland, consider adding more garlic or a splash of lemon juice to boost the flavor. For a creamier texture, adjust the amount of mayonnaise to suit your preference.
- Reheating Instructions: No reheating is necessary for this salad as it is served cold.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with grilled chicken or fish. Pair with crusty bread and a light soup. Top with crumbled feta for extra flavor.
- Recipe Variations: You can add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, mix in avocado for creaminess and healthy fats, or incorporate some radishes for a peppery crunch.
- Ingredient Notes: Use fresh garden cucumbers or English cucumbers for the best results. Red onion or Vidalia onions can be substituted for sweet white onion. Dried dill can replace fresh dill, but use less for a milder flavor. Regular white vinegar can be used in place of white wine vinegar if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 104
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 83mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg