Name: Cucumber Dill Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490312H35M47S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¾ cup Greek yogurt; 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon grated garlic; 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 perfectly captures the essence of summer, then this Cucumber Dill Salad is just what you need! It’s light, refreshing, and oh-so-delicious. Every bite reminds me of sun-soaked picnics and backyard barbecues with family and friends. This salad is not only simple to whip up but also a fantastic way to showcase fresh cucumbers and herbs. Trust me, once you taste this salad, it will become a staple at your gatherings!

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a lovely dinner party, this Cucumber Dill Salad fits right in. It’s healthy, quick to prepare, and certain to brighten any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish in no time.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchiness of cucumbers and the bright dill flavor. Everyone will want seconds!
Make Ahead: This salad stores beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping meals ahead of time.
Versatile: Pair it with almost any main dish or serve it as part of a larger spread. It’s always a hit!
Health Boost: Packed with fresh veggies and yogurt, it’s not only tasty but also nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You won’t need anything fancy—just fresh produce and some pantry staples that come together to make this delightful Cucumber Dill Salad.

Ingredients:
– 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 Cucumber Dill Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist with these fun variations:

Add some crunch: Toss in some chickpeas or toasted nuts for an added texture that everyone will love.
Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Herb swap: Try using fresh parsley, mint, or even basil if you’re looking for something different but equally refreshing.
Creamy twist: For an extra creamy texture, fold in some diced avocado. It adds richness that complements the cucumbers perfectly.

How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making your yogurt dressing! In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This dressing is key—it adds creaminess while keeping everything light and refreshing.

Step 2: Slice Your Veggies

Next up, let’s prep the veggies! Slice the red onion finely; this helps distribute its flavor throughout the salad without overpowering it. Then take those lovely cucumbers—cut them in half lengthwise and slice each half into thin rounds. The thinner they are, the better they’ll absorb that delightful dressing!

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large salad bowl, toss together all your prepared veggies along with the chopped fresh dill. Pour your yogurt dressing over the top and gently mix everything until well coated. I love how vibrant everything looks at this stage!

Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can serve your Cucumber Dill Salad right away at room temperature or cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy. Allowing it to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.

And there you have it—a refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Dill Salad

Creating the perfect cucumber dill salad is a breeze, especially with these helpful tips!

Choose the right cucumbers: Opt for English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them ideal for a crisp and refreshing salad.
Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing experience, especially on a hot day.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to taste your dressing and salad before serving; a little more salt or lemon juice can make all the difference in balancing flavors.
Add texture with nuts or seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top for an extra crunch that complements the creaminess of the yogurt dressing.
Use fresh herbs: While dill is the star of this dish, adding other herbs like mint or parsley can provide an additional layer of flavor and freshness.

How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad

Serving cucumber dill salad can be just as fun as making it! This delightful dish not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing when paired with complementary elements.

Garnishes

Fresh dill sprigs: A few sprigs on top add a nice touch of color and enhance the dill flavor.
Sliced radishes: Their vibrant color and peppery taste contrast beautifully with the cool cucumbers, providing an appealing visual element.

Side Dishes

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon and herbs complements the tangy flavors of the salad.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: This refreshing grain salad adds another layer of texture and flavor while remaining light and healthy.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a warm contrast to the coolness of cucumber salad, making for a well-rounded meal.
Hummus with Pita Chips: The creamy hummus pairs perfectly with this crunchy salad, providing protein and making it great for sharing at gatherings.

Enjoy creating your refreshing cucumber dill salad and feel good about serving up something deliciously healthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This cucumber dill salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy days. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, although the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the cucumbers will become mushy once thawed.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply take it out of the fridge and serve!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a cucumber dill salad.

Can I make Cucumber Dill Salad without yogurt?

Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice.

How long will Cucumber Dill Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this refreshing salad will last for up to 3 days. Enjoy it as a quick side dish or snack!

Can I add other ingredients to Cucumber Dill Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or even feta cheese for extra flavor.

What dishes pair well with Cucumber Dill Salad?

This light and zesty salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.

Is Cucumber Dill Salad gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful cucumber dill salad! Its refreshing flavors and crunchy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply looking for a healthy side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences!