Linda CainBefore we dive deep into the world of cucumber salad, let’s talk about what might be on your table alongside it. This salad shines as a side dish, but it also plays nicely with various main courses. Planning a summer barbecue? Serve it beside grilled chicken or pork skewers. Heading to a potluck?
It’ll make an excellent pairing with pasta dishes or even a hearty sandwich spread. I’ve found that it balances well with richer meals, providing that needed freshness. If you’re into wraps or tacos, it complements them wonderfully, adding crunch and brightness.
Now, let’s start this culinary journey.
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Ah, summertime! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and everyone’s itching to eat outdoors. With this vibrant season comes a delightful need for light, refreshing dishes — and my go-to cucumber salad is just the ticket. It’s crisp, hydrating, and packed with bright flavors that awaken your palate.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to elevate your weekday meal, this salad offers a burst of freshness. I’ve prepared this dish in countless variations, but I keep returning to this recipe.
Today, we’ll unpack what makes this go-to cucumber salad irresistible. You’ll see how easy it is to make, the flavors it combines, and why you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
What is Go-To Cucumber Salad?
Go-to cucumber salad is a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s a salad that’s incredibly easy to throw together but impresses with its taste. The simplicity of cucumbers, paired with the crunch of onions and the vibrant notes of fresh herbs, creates a dish that’s not only refreshing but also visually appealing.
This salad has Asian, Mediterranean, and even classic American roots. Each version brings something new to the table, but this rendition pays homage to all its variations while using easily accessible ingredients.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of my go-to cucumber salad is a delightful dance between freshness and tang. Cucumbers offer a watery crunch that’s soothing against the heat of summer. Red onions bring a bit of sharpness, while scallions add a playful oniony zing. A touch of honey balances everything, making it mildly sweet.
Next comes the green mint, which injects fragrant freshness. The white balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering, bringing it all together. Finally, just a sprinkle of red chili flakes adds a hint of heat, ensuring that taste buds will wake up with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This?
Quick and Easy: You won’t spend hours in the kitchen. This salad comes together in about 15 minutes.
Versatile: Swap in veggies you have on hand, or play with the dressing to fit your flavor preferences.
Healthful: Packed with fresh produce, it’s low in calories but high in nutrients.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it a day ahead for gatherings. It gets even better as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cucumbers, any variety you prefer
- Kosher salt, for seasoning
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch (about 6) scallions, trimmed and sliced thinly on the bias
- Small handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes, plus extra to taste
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar (or alternative)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start with your cucumbers. Rinse and dry them well. Depending on your source, you can choose to peel them or leave the skins on for added texture. Slice them thinly. A mandoline works wonders here if you have one, but a sharp knife will do just fine. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. This helps pull excess water from the cucumbers and enhances their flavor.
Step 2: Add the Onions and Scallions
Next, thinly slice your red onion. Red onions add a nice contrast with their color and flavor. Toss them in with the cucumbers. Then, grab your scallions. Trim the ends and slice them on the bias, including both the white and green parts. Add them to the cucumber-onion mix, creating layers of flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Whisking the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, mix together the white balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil. This is where the magic happens! If you like a hint of sweetness, add the honey. Whisk until it’s well combined; it should be silky and inviting. Adjust the seasoning with black pepper and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all ingredients are coated with the dressing. This is when the real fun begins. You’ll see the cucumbers glistening, ready to hit your taste buds.
Step 5: Garnish with Fresh Mint and Chili Flakes
To finish off your salad, chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the top. Add the crushed red chili flakes to taste. Finally, if you want that extra pop of flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Let your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the flavors and allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. Serve it cold, and watch it disappear.
Tips & Tricks
Salt Your Cucumbers: Salting them first removes excess moisture and enhances flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in taste.
Experiment with Variations: Toss in different veggies like bell peppers or grated carrots.
Adjust the Heat: If you like more spice, increase the chili flakes or even add some diced jalapeños.
Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Just keep the mint separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.
Nutrition Information
This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrients in a typical serving:
Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Vitamin A: 20% of RDI
Vitamin C: 25% of RDI
Calcium: 2% of RDI
Iron: 4% of RDI
These values can vary slightly. Still, it’s safe to say this salad is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthily while enjoying bold flavors.
How Can You Store This Go-To Cucumber Salad?
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing it is straightforward. Place the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It is best enjoyed within three days. The cucumbers will continue to release water, making it slightly wetter over time, but the flavors will still be zesty and fresh.
Ingredient Alternatives
What if you’re missing one of the ingredients? No worries. Here are some substitutes:
Cucumbers: If you don’t have cucumbers, zucchini can work in a pinch. It adds a similar crunch with a slightly sweet flavor.
White Balsamic Vinegar: If it’s not available, you can use apple cider vinegar or even red wine vinegar for a different yet delightful tang.
Fresh Mint: If mint isn’t in your herb garden, basil adds nice depth. Or, for something different, try using dill.
Go-To Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start with your cucumbers. Rinse and dry them well. Depending on your source, you can choose to peel them or leave the skins on for added texture. Slice them thinly. A mandoline works wonders here if you have one, but a sharp knife will do just fine. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. This helps pull excess water from the cucumbers and enhances their flavor.
- Next, thinly slice your red onion. Red onions add a nice contrast with their color and flavor. Toss them in with the cucumbers. Then, grab your scallions. Trim the ends and slice them on the bias, including both the white and green parts. Add them to the cucumber-onion mix, creating layers of flavor and crunch.
- In a smaller bowl, mix together the white balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil. This is where the magic happens! If you like a hint of sweetness, add the honey. Whisk until it’s well combined; it should be silky and inviting. Adjust the seasoning with black pepper and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all ingredients are coated with the dressing. This is when the real fun begins. You’ll see the cucumbers glistening, ready to hit your taste buds.
- To finish off your salad, chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the top. Add the crushed red chili flakes to taste. Finally, if you want that extra pop of flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt.
- Let your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the flavors and allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. Serve it cold, and watch it disappear.
Nutrition
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in taste.
Experiment with Variations: Toss in different veggies like bell peppers or grated carrots.
Adjust the Heat: If you like more spice, increase the chili flakes or even add some diced jalapeños.
Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Just keep the mint separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan if you skip the optional honey, or substitute it with agave syrup or maple syrup.
What type of cucumbers should I use?
English cucumbers are great because they are seedless and have a thinner skin, but regular cucumbers work just as well. Experiment with what you have!
How can I add protein to this salad?
Consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to make this salad more filling.
Is the salad gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended due to the high water content in cucumbers. They will become mushy once thawed.
Conclusion
In summary, my go-to cucumber salad is a true gem for summertime dining. With its refreshing crunch and zesty notes, this dish not only adds a burst of color to any table but also caters to various palates. It embraces ease and versatility, allowing you to adapt it to your taste effortlessly.
Next time you’re looking for a quick side dish, remember this easy recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’ll keep friends and family coming back for seconds. Enjoy the flavors of summer and share your salad with those you love — they won’t be able to resist. Happy cooking!
