Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor and crunch to your table. Ideal for summer picnics or as a light side, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. With its crisp cucumbers and vibrant tomatoes, every bite is a delight. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this healthy dish at home!
Ingredients
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately 150 calories, 8g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, and 4g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Wash the cucumbers under cold water and pat dry.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers for a different flavor and color. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of feta.
Serving and Pairings
This cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood dishes, or can be served as a light appetizer. It’s perfect alongside hummus and pita for a refreshing meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best served fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave, avoiding overcooking the cucumbers.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe cucumbers can lead to a mushy salad.
- Not salting the cucumbers beforehand can result in a watery salad.
- Forgetting to mix the dressing thoroughly can leave some bites bland.
- Using too much onion can overpower the dish.
- Not allowing the salad to chill can diminish its refreshing quality.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mandoline for uniform cucumber slices.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Experiment with adding avocado for creaminess.
- Fresh herbs like basil can enhance the flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I add protein to cucumber salad?
Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more filling meal.
How long can I keep cucumber salad in the fridge?
It’s best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness and texture.
Is cucumber salad vegan?
It can be made vegan by omitting feta cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
Can I use pickles instead of fresh cucumbers?
Yes, using pickles will give a tangy twist to the salad, but adjust the salt accordingly.
What variations can I try?
You can add fruits like watermelon or strawberries for a sweet touch or swap out the dressing for a yogurt-based one.
Conclusion
Cucumber salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that can elevate any meal. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for healthy eating. Enjoy this salad as a side or a light meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors!
Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers under cold water and pat dry.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
