Name: Cucumber Dill Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490018H45M4S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ¾ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt); 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 cucumbers, sliced; ½ red onion, finely sliced; ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze, then you’ve come to the right place! This Cucumber Dill Salad is one of my all-time favorites. It’s light, crisp, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have much time to spare. Plus, it steals the show at family gatherings and BBQs, making it a go-to side dish that everyone enjoys.

What I love most about this salad is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of goodness in no time. Trust me; once you taste this delightful combination of cool cucumbers and zesty dill, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to make: In just 10 minutes, you can have this salad ready to serve!
Family-friendly: Kids love the crunchy texture and fresh flavors.
Make-ahead convenience: It keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
Versatile dish: Great as a side or even as a light main course.
Healthy goodness: Packed with nutrients and low in calories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this Cucumber Dill Salad. You probably already have many of them in your kitchen, which makes this recipe even more inviting!

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 how flexible it can be! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Add some crunch: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
Boost the protein: Add some chickpeas or cooked quinoa to make it more filling.
Herb swap: If dill isn’t your favorite, try using parsley or mint for a different twist.
Creamy alternative: Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.

How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by placing the yogurt in a small bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This creamy dressing is what brings all the flavors together!

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

Next up, slice your cucumbers in half lengthwise and then cut each half into thin slices—about 3mm or 1/8 inch thick works perfectly. Finely slice the red onion as well. These fresh veggies give the salad its signature crunch!

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large salad bowl, toss together all your sliced cucumbers and onions along with the chopped dill. Pour that delicious dressing over the top and gently mix until everything is coated evenly. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

You can enjoy your Cucumber Dill Salad right away at room temperature or pop it in the fridge to chill for later. Either way, it’s bound to be a hit!

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful dish! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Dill Salad

Making a delicious cucumber dill salad is a breeze, especially if you keep these handy tips in mind!

Choose the freshest cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers will provide the best crunch and flavor. Look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes.
Chill before serving: While you can serve this salad at room temperature, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors. It makes for an even more refreshing dish!
Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper according to your preference. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so make it yours!
Add a touch of sweetness: If you like a hint of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup to balance the tangy dressing.
Experiment with herbs: Besides dill, try incorporating other herbs like mint or parsley for an exciting twist on flavor.

How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad

This cucumber dill salad is not just tasty; it’s also visually appealing! You can serve it in various creative ways to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side adds a pop of color and provides an extra zing if someone wants more citrus.
Extra dill sprigs: A few fresh dill sprigs on top not only enhance the presentation but also give a visual cue about the flavor profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in herbs make a perfect complement to the refreshing salad. The smoky flavor contrasts beautifully with the coolness of the cucumbers.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herby grain salad is packed with fresh vegetables and flavors. It pairs well with cucumber dill salad, creating a light yet satisfying meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side that balances the lightness of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds warmth and depth to your meal while keeping everything light and nutritious.

Enjoy serving this delightful cucumber dill salad alongside your favorite dishes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This cucumber dill salad is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. It can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and it keeps well in the fridge!

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
If possible, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of cucumbers.
It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; there’s no need to reheat.
If it has been refrigerated, let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving for a more pleasant eating temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this refreshing cucumber dill salad.

Can I make Cucumber Dill Salad without Greek yogurt?

Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt option or use sour cream if you prefer. Just ensure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best flavor.

How long does Cucumber Dill Salad last in the fridge?

The salad can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. For the best taste and texture, consume it within that time frame.

What can I serve with Cucumber Dill Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish for BBQs. It’s also great on its own as a light snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful cucumber dill salad! Its refreshing flavors and crunchy textures make it a standout side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with friends and family during those warm summer gatherings. Happy cooking!