Name: Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette: A Refreshing & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large cucumbers, preferably English cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup white wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess

Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette: Prepare to be transported to a realm of refreshing flavors with this simple yet elegant dish! Have you ever craved a light, crisp salad that perfectly balances sweetness and tang? This isn't just any salad; it's a vibrant celebration of summer's bounty, ready in minutes and guaranteed to brighten any meal.

Cucumber salads, in their various forms, have graced tables for centuries, with variations found across numerous cultures. From the creamy dill-infused versions of Eastern Europe to the spicy, sesame-dressed iterations of Asia, the humble cucumber has proven its versatility. Our Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette draws inspiration from these global influences, offering a modern twist on a classic favorite.

What makes this salad so irresistible? It's the delightful crunch of the cucumbers, the zesty kick of the vinaigrette, and the overall feeling of lightness it brings. People adore this dish because it's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. It's the perfect side for grilled meats, fish, or even enjoyed as a light lunch on a warm day. The crisp, clean taste is a welcome palate cleanser, making it a beloved staple in many households. Get ready to experience the magic of a truly exceptional cucumber salad!

Ingredients:

4 large cucumbers, preferably English cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess

Preparing the Cucumber and Onion:

Okay, let's get started! First things first, we need to prep our veggies. The key to a great cucumber salad is thinly sliced cucumbers. I prefer using English cucumbers because their skin is thinner and they have fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work just fine too. If you're using regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them and remove some of the seeds if they're particularly large.

Slice the Cucumbers: Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, carefully slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for consistent thickness so they marinate evenly. If you don't have a mandoline, don't worry! Just take your time and slice them as thinly as you can.
Slice the Red Onion: Now, let's tackle the red onion. Thinly slice it as well. Red onion adds a lovely bite and color to the salad. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow out the flavor. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the salad.
Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion. Be careful not to bruise the cucumbers.

Making the Vinaigrette:

The vinaigrette is what really brings this salad to life! It's a simple combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that perfectly complements the fresh cucumbers and onion. Don't be afraid to adjust the ingredients to your liking – that's the beauty of cooking!

Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Make sure the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. The Dijon mustard helps to emulsify the vinaigrette, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Taste and Adjust: Give the vinaigrette a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If it's too tart, add a little more sugar. If it needs more zing, add a splash more vinegar. If it's not salty enough, add a pinch more salt. Remember, you're the chef, so make it your own!
Optional Creaminess: If you want a creamier vinaigrette, whisk in the sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth. This adds a lovely richness and tanginess to the salad.

Marinating the Salad:

This is the most important step! Marinating allows the cucumbers and onion to absorb the flavors of the vinaigrette, resulting in a truly delicious and flavorful salad. Don't skip this step, or you'll be missing out on the best part!

Pour the Vinaigrette: Pour the vinaigrette over the cucumber and onion mixture in the large bowl.
Gently Toss: Gently toss the salad to ensure that all the cucumbers and onion are evenly coated with the vinaigrette. Be careful not to overmix, as this can bruise the cucumbers.
Add the Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh dill and parsley. These herbs add a wonderful freshness and aroma to the salad. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but be sure to use less, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh herbs. About 1 teaspoon of dried dill and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley should be sufficient.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the salad marinates, the more flavorful it will become. However, don't marinate it for too long, as the cucumbers can become soggy. I find that 1 hour is the sweet spot.
Stir Occasionally: If you have time, stir the salad occasionally while it's marinating to ensure that the cucumbers and onion are evenly coated with the vinaigrette.

Serving the Cucumber Salad:

Finally, the moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to serve and enjoy our delicious cucumber salad. This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, fish, or chicken. It's also a great addition to potlucks and picnics. And, of course, it's delicious all on its own!

Drain Excess Liquid: Before serving, you may want to drain off any excess liquid that has accumulated in the bowl. This will prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
Taste and Adjust Seasonings (Again!): Give the salad one last taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may need to add a little more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.
Serve Chilled: Serve the cucumber salad chilled. It's best enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator.
Garnish (Optional): If you want to get fancy, you can garnish the salad with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley. A sprinkle of paprika also adds a nice touch of color.
Enjoy! Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your refreshing and delicious cucumber salad! I hope you love it as much as I do.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and variations to make this cucumber salad even more amazing:

Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or carrots. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they marinate evenly.
Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as mint, chives, or basil. Each herb will add a unique flavor to the salad.
Add a Little Heat: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette.
Make it Vegan: To make the salad vegan, simply omit the sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Make it Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the cucumbers may become a little softer over time.
Add Feta Cheese: For a salty and tangy twist, crumble some feta cheese over the salad before serving.
Use Different Vinegars: Experiment with different vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar. Each vinegar will add a unique flavor to the vinaigrette.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may become a little softer over time, but the salad will still be delicious.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: Approximately 80-100
Fat: 6-8 grams
Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams
Protein: 1-2 grams

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion:

This Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette isn't just another salad; it's a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor that will elevate any meal. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a taste that's both refreshing and satisfying. Forget those heavy, creamy dressings – this vinaigrette is light, tangy, and perfectly complements the crispness of the cucumbers. It’s the kind of salad you’ll crave on a hot summer day, but honestly, it’s delicious any time of year. Think of it as your secret weapon for quick lunches, potlucks, or even a simple side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, a touch of honey or maple syrup will do the trick. Serving Suggestions and Variations: Beyond the basic cucumber salad, this vinaigrette is fantastic on other salads too! Try it with sliced tomatoes and red onion for a classic summer salad. It's also delicious drizzled over a mixed green salad with crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts. For a heartier meal, add grilled shrimp or chicken to the cucumber salad. Here are a few more ideas to get you started: * Asian-Inspired Variation: Add a teaspoon of sesame oil, a tablespoon of rice vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist. * Mediterranean Variation: Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. * Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream. I’ve found that letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The cucumbers will absorb the vinaigrette, becoming even more flavorful and tender. You can even make it a day ahead of time – just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. But the best part about this recipe? It's incredibly forgiving. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique version. Maybe you'll discover a new favorite combination! I am confident that you'll love this Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette as much as I do. It's a simple, flavorful, and versatile recipe that's perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead and give it a try! I promise you won't be disappointed. And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you've made this salad, please share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback is invaluable, and I love hearing about your culinary adventures. Let's create a community of salad lovers and share our tips and tricks for making the perfect Cucumber Salad Vinaigrette! Happy cooking!