Ever had one of those days where you crave a refreshing burst of crunch that dances on your taste buds? Let me introduce you to my go-to solution: a five-minute cucumber salad that’s as crisp as freshly ironed summer linens and tangy enough to make you want to book a one-way ticket to flavor town.
I love how refreshing and quick this 5-Minute Cucumber Salad is. With the crispness of thinly sliced cucumbers and the tang of rice vinegar, it’s both light and flavorful.
I think the combination of fresh dill and a hint of sugar enhances its zest perfectly. For me, it’s the ideal healthy side dish option when I want something nutritious and fast.
5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredients
- Cucumbers: Hydrating and low-calorie, provide fiber and vitamin K.
- Red Onion: Adds a zesty flavor and color, rich in antioxidants.
- Rice Vinegar: Low-calorie, imparts a tangy, slightly sweet taste.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor and absorption of nutrients.
- Fresh Dill: Aromatic herb, offers a burst of flavor, rich in vitamin C.
5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make this 5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
2. Add the thinly sliced cucumbers to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl, mixing gently to incorporate it with the cucumbers.
4. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the cucumber and onion mixture.
5. Toss everything together until the cucumbers and onions are evenly covered with the dressing and dill.
6. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve the cucumber salad immediately for a fresh and crisp side dish.
8. Optional: Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper to taste before serving.
9. For extra flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy your quick and delicious 5 Minute Cucumber Salad!
5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Large mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Chef’s knife
6. Cutting board
7. Serving spoon or tongs
FAQ
-
Can I use any other type of vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor. -
Is there a substitute for fresh dill in this recipe?
You can use dried dill if fresh dill is not available. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill. -
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to serve it within a few hours of preparation. If making ahead, store in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before serving. -
How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming too watery?
You can lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat them dry before mixing the salad. -
Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?
It’s not necessary, especially if you prefer the texture or are using thin-skinned varieties like Persian cucumbers. However, peeling is recommended if you find the skin too tough.
5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- Rice vinegar: Substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil or sunflower oil as alternatives.
- Fresh dill: Try using fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor.
- Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Red onion: Consider using shallots for a milder onion flavor.
Pro Tips
1. Use an English Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for a less bitter and more delicate flavor, with a thinner skin that doesn’t require peeling.
2. Chill the Onions: Soak the sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad to mellow their sharpness and make them milder.
3. Add a Touch of Zest: Grate a small amount of lemon or lime zest into the dressing for an extra layer of citrusy brightness.
4. Enhance with Herbs: Consider adding fresh mint or basil alongside the dill for additional herbal notes and complexity.
5. Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar quantity to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet salad, start with half a teaspoon and increase gradually if needed.
5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe
My favorite 5 Minute Cucumber Salad Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Chef’s knife
6. Cutting board
7. Serving spoon or tongs
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
2. Add the thinly sliced cucumbers to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl, mixing gently to incorporate it with the cucumbers.
4. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the cucumber and onion mixture.
5. Toss everything together until the cucumbers and onions are evenly covered with the dressing and dill.
6. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve the cucumber salad immediately for a fresh and crisp side dish.
8. Optional: Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper to taste before serving.
9. For extra flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy your quick and delicious 5 Minute Cucumber Salad!
