Fresh and Crunchy Cucumber Salad: A Healthy Delight

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
1 small red onion
1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped

Steps and instructions

Peel the cucumbers and slice them into thin rounds.
Thinly slice the red onion.
In a large bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Add the sliced cucumbers and onion to the bowl with the vinegar mixture. Toss to combine and coat the vegetables in the dressing.
Chop the fresh dill and add it to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the dill throughout the salad.
Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, stir the salad to redistribute the dressing and serve chilled.

Tools for making

Cutting board - for slicing cucumbers and onion
Knife - to cut the cucumbers, onion, and fresh dill
Large bowl - to mix the ingredients together
Whisk - for whisking the vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper

Recipe variations

Add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Replace apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a different tangy taste.
Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese on top for a creamy and tangy twist.
Add a handful of fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or mint for a herbaceous flavor.
For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapenos or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Add some sliced radishes or carrots for added crunch.
Try using different types of vinegar like balsamic vinegar or sherry vinegar for a unique flavor profile.
For a creamy cucumber salad, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.
For a Mediterranean twist, add some Kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil.

Recipe overview

This refreshing Cucumber Salad is a perfect side dish that's light, tangy, and incredibly flavorful. Made with simple ingredients, this salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the sharp tang of red onions, and the subtle sweetness of a light apple cider vinegar dressing. The addition of fresh dill gives the salad an aromatic kick that truly sets it apart. This salad is easy to prepare and it's a fantastic way to enjoy fresh cucumbers. The salad also benefits from sitting for a while before serving, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics and gatherings. Expect a crisp, tangy, and cool salad that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Common questions

Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers? Yes, you can use English cucumbers as a substitute for regular cucumbers in this recipe. Just make sure to slice them thinly as instructed.
Can I use a different type of vinegar? While apple cider vinegar is recommended for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, you can use other types of vinegar such as white vinegar or rice vinegar if preferred.
Can I substitute dried dill for fresh dill? Fresh dill is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried dill as a substitute. Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
How long does the salad need to sit before serving? The salad should sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, you can also refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight for even better flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can make this cucumber salad ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to toss and combine the ingredients.
Whisk - Used to dissolve the sugar and mix the dressing.
Knife - To slice the cucumbers and red onion.
Cutting Board - A surface to safely chop and prepare the vegetables.
Measuring Cup - To accurately measure the apple cider vinegar and sugar.
Measuring Spoons - For precise measurement of salt, pepper, and dill.
Serving Bowl - A bowl to present and serve the cucumber salad.
Serving Utensils - Such as tongs or a spoon, to serve the salad onto plates or bowls.

Origin stories

Cucumber salad, a refreshing and simple dish, has a ubiquitous presence across multiple cuisines. In Eastern Europe, particularly in countries such as Poland, Hungary, and Russia, a version of this salad called "Mizeria" has been a staple for centuries. The name "Mizeria" interestingly translates to "misery", but the salad is far from that. Named during the reign of Queen Bona Sforza in the 16th century, it was said to be a dish that the Queen enjoyed, but it also made her melancholic as it reminded her of her homeland Italy. The blend of crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and fresh dill is a humble dish, yet it carries with it a sense of nostalgia and a refreshing simplicity that transcends borders, making it a beloved recipe worldwide.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.