Cucumber Salad Recipe: A Fresh and Refreshing Summer Dish

Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or trying to find a way to beat the summer heat, cucumber salad is the perfect solution. This versatile salad can be customized to suit your taste buds and is incredibly easy to make. With a combination of crunchy cucumbers, tangy dressings, and a variety of additional ingredients, cucumber salad is sure to become your go-to dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers (500 g / 1 lb)
• 1 small red onion (50 g / 2 oz)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (250 g / 9 oz)
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (10 g / 0.4 oz)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (30 g / 1 oz)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (60 ml / 2 fl oz)
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Start by washing the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes under cold water. If you prefer a more tender cucumber, you can peel the skin off. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and quarter the cherry tomatoes. Set them aside.

2. Peel the red onion and slice it into thin half-moons. Soak the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their sharp flavor. Drain and set them aside.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and chopped dill. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it a final toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. Place the cucumber salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad is best served chilled.

Notes/Tips

• If you want to add a little more crunch to your salad, you can include some sliced bell peppers or radishes.
• For a creamier dressing, you can substitute the white wine vinegar with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your cucumber salad. Mint, parsley, or basil can add an extra burst of flavor.
• Feel free to add a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the dressing by incorporating some honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

Cucumber salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that can elevate any meal. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, you can adapt this recipe to your liking. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want a healthy side dish for dinner, this cucumber salad will bring a burst of freshness to your table. Enjoy the crispness of the cucumbers, the tanginess of the dressing, and the added flavors from the feta cheese, red onion, and dill. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your summertime repertoire.