Simple Cucumber Dill Salad

I still remember the first time I tossed together this simple cucumber and dill chopped salad on a sunny afternoon, craving something light and crisp that felt like a breath of fresh air.

One weekend, unexpected guests popped by and I had only a few minutes; whipping up this salad saved the day and got everyone talking about how fresh and inviting it tasted.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers: I go for firm but not too seedy ones, the crunch makes all the difference
• 1 small red onion: finely chopped to add a gentle sharpness without overpowering
• 1/4 cup fresh dill: chopped just before mixing to keep that bright herb aroma fresh
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional): for an extra layer of green freshness
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional): halved to add bursts of sweetness
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: quality matters here to elevate the dressing
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: freshly squeezed always wins
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar: to balance and brighten flavors
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: seasoning to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for a subtle kick

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Dice the cucumbers and finely chop the red onion and dill so each bite carries that fresh, crunchy texture and herby aroma.

Mix the Veggies:

In a large bowl, toss together the cucumbers, red onion, dill, parsley, and tomatoes if you're using them, watching how the colors brighten your prep surface.

Whisk the Dressing:

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, whisking until everything blends into a glossy, zesty elixir.

Bring It All Together:

Pour the dressing over your chopped veggies and gently toss, noticing how the dressing lightly coats each piece, promising refreshment.

Final Taste Check:

Give the salad a quick taste. Maybe a pinch more salt or an extra squeeze of lemon? Adjust until it sings.

Serve or Chill:

Enjoy immediately for crispness or let it rest in the fridge up to an hour for a more marinated, melded flavor.

Save

This salad became more than just a light side when I brought it to a family picnic and everyone asked for seconds; it felt like sharing a simple joy that turned into a memory.

Keeping It Fresh

Make sure cucumbers are firm and not watery for best texture. If prepping ahead, drain any excess liquid from the veggies before tossing with dressing to avoid sogginess.

When You're Missing Something

If you don&t have white wine vinegar, a splash of apple cider vinegar works too and adds a slightly fruitier note without changing the balance.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, but I&ve also tossed it alongside warm pita and hummus for a quick Mediterranean vibe.

• Always have extra lemon juice on hand for brightening up days when flavors feel dull
• Adding crumbled feta can turn this into a heartier salad suitable for a light meal
• Don&t forget to stir gently before serving if it has been chilled to redistribute flavors evenly

Save

Thanks for spending time here with me in the kitchen; I hope this salad brings you as much simple joy as it does on my table.

Recipe FAQs

→ What ingredients give this salad its refreshing flavor?

The cucumber provides a crisp texture, while fresh dill adds fragrant herbal notes. The lemon juice and vinegar contribute bright, zesty flavors.

→ Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld without losing crunch.

→ Are there suggested additions to enhance the salad?

Sliced radishes or sweet bell peppers add extra crunch, while feta or goat cheese provide a creamy, tangy contrast.

→ What dressing is used in this salad?

A simple mix of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper dresses the salad lightly.

→ Is this salad suitable for special diets?

Yes, it is vegetarian, gluten-free, and low carb, fitting well into many dietary preferences.