Name: Cucumber Slaw: The Refreshing Summer Salad Recipe You Need
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon celery seed; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cucumber Slaw: Prepare to be amazed by this refreshingly crisp and tangy side dish that will elevate any meal! Forget the heavy, mayonnaise-laden slaws of the past. This vibrant cucumber slaw is a light and healthy alternative, bursting with flavor and perfect for warm weather gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.

While the exact origins of slaw are debated, variations have appeared in cuisines around the world for centuries. The concept of combining shredded vegetables with a dressing is a timeless one, and this cucumber version offers a unique twist on a classic. It’s a delightful departure from the traditional cabbage-based slaw, offering a cooler, more hydrating experience.

What makes this cucumber slaw so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures – the crispness of the cucumber, the slight bite of red onion, and the smoothness of the dressing. The taste is equally captivating, a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly savory notes. Plus, it's incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it a lifesaver when you're short on time but still want a delicious and healthy side. Get ready to experience a slaw that will redefine your expectations!

Ingredients:

3 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparing the Cucumber and Onion:

Okay, let's get started! First things first, we need to prep our cucumbers and red onion. This is a crucial step because how you slice them will affect the overall texture of the slaw. I prefer using a mandoline slicer for perfectly even and thin cucumber slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. Just aim for consistency!

Peel the cucumbers: I always peel my cucumbers for slaw because the skin can sometimes be a little tough. But if you prefer the skin, feel free to leave it on! Just make sure to wash them thoroughly.
Seed the cucumbers: This step is important to prevent the slaw from becoming too watery. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
Thinly slice the cucumbers: Now, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness. If you're using a mandoline, be careful and use the hand guard!
Thinly slice the red onion: Red onion adds a lovely bite and color to the slaw. Slice it as thinly as you can, either with a knife or a mandoline. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor. Drain them well before adding them to the slaw.
Combine cucumbers and red onion: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced cucumbers and red onion together.

Making the Dressing:

The dressing is what really brings this cucumber slaw to life! It's a simple combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that perfectly complements the fresh cucumbers and red onion. Don't be afraid to adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a tangier slaw, add a little more vinegar. If you like it sweeter, add a touch more sugar.

Combine wet ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.
Add dry ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Whisk again until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Incorporate herbs (optional): If you're using fresh dill and parsley, now's the time to add them to the dressing. Stir them in gently until they're evenly distributed. The fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the slaw.

Assembling the Cucumber Slaw:

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where the magic happens and the individual ingredients transform into a delicious and refreshing cucumber slaw. The key is to gently combine the dressing with the cucumbers and red onion without overmixing, which can make the cucumbers release too much water.

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and red onion: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and red onion mixture in the large bowl.
Gently toss to combine: Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss the ingredients together until the cucumbers and red onion are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix.
Chill the slaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, or preferably an hour, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill properly. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
Adjust seasonings (if needed): Before serving, give the slaw a final taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your preferences.

Tips and Variations:

This cucumber slaw is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slaw, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even some thinly sliced radishes.
Use a different type of vinegar: If you don't have apple cider vinegar, you can use white vinegar, rice vinegar, or even a squeeze of lemon juice.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a little kick.
Add protein: This slaw is delicious served with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. You can even add some cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
Make it vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative.
Sweetener Alternatives: Instead of granulated sugar, try honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like mint, chives, or tarragon.
Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This cucumber slaw is the perfect side dish for so many different meals. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

As a side dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or vegetables. It's especially delicious with barbecue!
On sandwiches and burgers: Add a scoop of cucumber slaw to your sandwiches and burgers for a refreshing crunch.
In tacos: Use it as a topping for tacos, especially fish tacos.
As a salad: Serve it as a light and refreshing salad on its own.

Storage Instructions:

Cucumber slaw is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will release more water as they sit, so the slaw may become a little watery over time. You can drain off any excess liquid before serving.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe works because it balances the crispness of the cucumbers and red onion with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing. The celery seed adds a subtle but essential flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a slaw that is both refreshing and flavorful. The optional herbs add a touch of freshness and aroma that elevates the dish to another level.

Troubleshooting:

Slaw is too watery: Make sure you seed the cucumbers properly. You can also drain off any excess liquid before serving.
Slaw is too bland: Add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to taste.
Slaw is too sweet: Add more vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Red onion is too strong: Soak the sliced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the slaw.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: Approximately 150-200
Fat: 12-15g
Carbohydrates: 8-10g
Protein: 1-2g

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

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It's a simple, refreshing, and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how you like it!

Conclusion:

This isn't just another side dish; it's a vibrant, refreshing experience that will elevate any meal. I truly believe this Cucumber Slaw is a must-try, and here's why: its crisp texture, the tangy-sweet dressing, and the overall lightness make it the perfect counterpoint to heavier dishes. It's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Forget those heavy, mayonnaise-laden slaws of the past; this is a modern, healthy twist that will leave you feeling good and wanting more. But the best part? Its versatility! While I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, the possibilities are truly endless. Imagine it piled high on pulled pork sandwiches for a delightful crunch and coolness. Or, try it as a refreshing topping for tacos, adding a burst of flavor and texture that complements the savory filling perfectly. For a vegetarian option, it's fantastic with falafel or grilled halloumi. And don't be afraid to experiment with variations! If you're looking for a little extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño to the dressing. For a more Asian-inspired flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. You could also incorporate other vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even thinly sliced red onion for added color and nutrients. A handful of chopped cilantro or mint will also add a fresh, herbaceous note. If you want to make it creamier, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can be stirred into the dressing.

Serving Suggestions:

* Alongside grilled meats (chicken, fish, steak) * As a topping for pulled pork sandwiches or tacos * With falafel or grilled halloumi * As a side dish for potlucks and barbecues * Mixed into grain bowls for added freshness

Variations:

* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat. * Incorporate sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist. * Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or red onion for added color and nutrients. * Stir in chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh, herbaceous note. * Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamier texture. I'm confident that once you try this Cucumber Slaw, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It's the perfect way to add a touch of freshness and flavor to any meal. So, go ahead, give it a try! I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you pair it with something unexpected? Share your photos and comments below – I'm always eager to see how you make this recipe your own. Happy cooking! Let me know what you think of this refreshing and easy-to-make slaw! I'm excited to hear all about your culinary adventures.