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This cucumber salad has been my summer go-to for years. It combines crisp English cucumbers, sweet red onions, and fresh herbs in a bright vinegar-honey dressing. Perfect when you want something light and refreshing that comes together in minutes.
Why Make This Salad
I love how versatile this salad is. It pairs beautifully with anything from grilled meats to sandwiches and stays crisp and fresh for picnics and BBQs. Best of all it takes less than 30 minutes to make with ingredients you likely have on hand.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Start with fresh English cucumbers - their thin skins and minimal seeds make them perfect for this salad. Add thinly sliced red onion for a savory bite. The dressing is a simple mix of white wine vinegar honey and olive oil. Fresh dill and chives bring everything together with their bright herbal notes.
Making The Salad
This salad comes together so easily. Slice your cucumbers and onions as thinly as possible - I love using a mandoline for even cuts. Toss them with the vinegar honey and a pinch of salt. Let everything chill for about 20 minutes so the flavors can meld. Just before serving add your fresh herbs for the perfect finish.
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Perfect Pairings
This salad shines alongside grilled vegetables or proteins. Try it with pasta salads or fresh tomato dishes. I especially love it with sandwiches - it adds such a bright crisp element to things like chickpea salad sandwiches or classic Caprese.
Getting The Best Results
A few simple tips make this salad extra special. Always chill before serving - it brings out the crispness of the vegetables. Use a mandoline if you have one for those perfect thin slices. And be sure to drain off any excess liquid before adding your garnishes.
Common Questions
Let me answer the questions I hear most often. You only need to peel the cucumbers if you're using regular ones - English cucumbers have tender edible skins. The salad keeps well for about 3 days in the fridge. And yes you can make it vegan by swapping the honey for agave nectar.
Making It Your Own
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Add tomatoes and feta for Mediterranean flair. Spice it up with some thinly sliced jalapeños. Not a fan of dill? Try fresh parsley instead - it gives a milder herbal note that's just as delicious.
Keeping It Fresh
Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge where it'll stay crisp for up to 3 days. If you're planning ahead keep the dressing separate from the vegetables until serving time. Just remember cucumbers don't freeze well so enjoy this fresh.
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The Perfect Balance
What makes this recipe work so beautifully is its simplicity. Using everyday ingredients in the right proportions creates something special. The quick prep time means you can have it ready whenever you need a fresh side dish. And it's so easy to adjust the flavors to complement whatever else you're serving.
Success Tips
Start with well-chilled cucumbers for maximum crispness. Take time to taste and adjust your dressing - the perfect balance of honey and vinegar makes all the difference. And always toss everything together just before serving for the freshest possible flavor.
Year-Round Enjoyment
While this salad is perfect for summer picnics and BBQs you can enjoy it any time of year. Look for greenhouse-grown English cucumbers during winter months. The bright fresh flavors are especially welcome during cold weather.
Healthy Choice
At just 90 calories per serving with 4g fat 10g carbs and 2g protein this salad is as good for you as it is delicious. It's the perfect light side dish that still feels satisfying thanks to its crisp textures and bright flavors.
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What Others Say
I love hearing how this recipe has become a summer staple for so many. From backyard BBQs to family dinners people tell me they make it again and again. The combination of dill and chives gets especially high praise for its fresh garden flavor.
Perfect Partners
Try this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light healthy meal. It's wonderful with hummus and pita bread for a Mediterranean-style lunch. On hot days serve it with iced tea or fresh lemonade for the ultimate refreshing combination.
Plan Ahead
Save time by prepping your vegetables and mixing the dressing up to a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge then combine just before serving. You'll get all the convenience of make-ahead prep with the perfect fresh texture.
Simply Delicious
This cucumber salad proves that simple ingredients prepared thoughtfully can create something truly special. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just want a fresh side dish it's a recipe that delivers every time. The bright flavors and crisp textures make it a joy to eat and share.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why chill the salad?
Chilling allows the flavors to meld and draws excess water from the cucumbers, creating better texture.
- → Why use English cucumbers?
English cucumbers have thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them ideal for salads without peeling.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but drain excess liquid before serving and add herbs just before serving for best freshness.
- → Why slice vegetables very thinly?
Thin slices allow better absorption of the dressing and create a more delicate texture.
- → Can I substitute the sweetener?
Yes, honey can be replaced with agave nectar or another liquid sweetener of choice.
Conclusion
Create a cooling summer salad by marinating thinly sliced cucumbers and onions with fresh herbs in a honey-vinegar dressing.