Simple Cucumber Salad with Dill

Name: Simple Cucumber Salad with Dill
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 medium cucumbers, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I absolutely love making this Simple Cucumber Salad with Dill whenever I want something refreshing and light. The coolness of the cucumbers combined with the bright flavor of fresh dill creates a perfect side dish for any meal. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches. Trust me; once you try this salad, it will become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for picnics and barbecues alike.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:37:27.931Z

When I first tried this cucumber salad, I was amazed at how something so simple could be packed with flavor. The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the tangy dressing truly elevates this dish. I recommend letting the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. I often add a sprinkle of feta cheese or some sliced red onions to give it an extra kick. Experimenting with different herbs like parsley or mint can also yield delicious results, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing and crisp, perfect for hot days
Quick to prepare, making it a go-to side dish
Versatile enough to complement various meals

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh cucumbers is essential for achieving the crisp texture that makes this salad so refreshing. Look for cucumbers that are firm and have a vibrant color; avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes. When slicing, aim for even thickness to ensure consistency in texture and flavor throughout the salad.

Fresh dill is another key ingredient that elevates this dish. Its aromatic quality pairs beautifully with the cool cucumbers. If fresh dill is unavailable, you can use dried dill, but reduce the quantity by about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated. Adding the dill at the beginning allows its flavor to infuse the oil and vinegar.

Perfecting the Dressing

The simple dressing of olive oil and white vinegar is crucial for balancing out the flavors. When choosing olive oil, opt for a light variety to avoid overpowering the salad's fresh ingredients. Whisk together the oil and vinegar before combining it with the other ingredients to ensure a well-mixed dressing. This technique helps the dressing coat the cucumbers beautifully.

For added zing, consider incorporating a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of Dijon mustard into the dressing. These ingredients can enhance the salad's brightness and add a complex flavor profile that complements the dill.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This cucumber salad serves as an excellent side dish for grilled meats, but it also shines as a refreshing topping for sandwiches. Its crisp texture adds an enjoyable crunch that contrasts with softer ingredients. Customize the salad by adding feta cheese for a creamy element or diced tomatoes for a splash of color and sweetness.

For a heartier version, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas, transforming it into a nutritious main dish. If you plan to make it ahead of time, keep the cucumbers separate from the dressing until right before serving to maintain their crunch and prevent them from becoming watery.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this lovely salad:

Cucumber Salad Ingredients

3 medium cucumbers, sliced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to make this salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your cucumber salad:

Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the chopped dill, red onion (if using), olive oil, and white vinegar to the bowl with cucumbers.

Toss and Season

Gently toss the salad to mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to develop.

Enjoy your refreshing cucumber salad!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider mixing in some bell peppers or carrots. If you're a fan of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up nicely!

Storage Tips

To maintain the salad's freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal texture. If it starts to release water, simply drain any excess liquid before serving again. Avoid freezing this salad, as the cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing.

When preparing in advance, consider prepping the cucumbers and dill, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This approach preserves the crispness of the cucumbers and the vibrant flavor of the dill.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your salad ends up too watery, the culprit is likely the cucumbers. To prevent this, salting the cucumbers before assembly can help draw out excess moisture. Simply slice them, toss with a pinch of salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry before adding to the bowl with the other ingredients.

On the other hand, if the salad lacks flavor, it might need more seasoning. Always taste before serving and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar to elevate the overall taste.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. For every additional two cucumbers, increase the amount of dill, olive oil, and vinegar proportionally to maintain the flavor balance. For example, doubling the recipe would mean six cucumbers and half a cup each of dill and dressing.

If you decide to make a larger batch, consider preparing it in a big, wide mixing bowl. This allows ample space for tossing the ingredients without spilling. Ensure to adjust the seasoning after scaling, as larger quantities may require slight tweaks for optimal flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute dill with parsley, mint, or cilantro for different flavor profiles.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.