The crisp, refreshing crunch of cucumber salad with garlic and dill pickle vinaigrette is like a cool breeze on a hot summer day. Imagine biting into that vibrant green goodness, the garlic tingling your taste buds while the dill pickle adds a delightful zing. Turkey Meatloaf with Sweet Potatoes Cucumber Radish Salad This salad isn’t just food; it’s a party on your palate that dances between sweet, tangy, and downright irresistible. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other vegetables in this cucumber salad?
- How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends were skeptical, raising eyebrows at the mention of pickles in a vinaigrette. But once they took a bite, their expressions transformed from doubt to delight. Perfect for picnics or backyard barbecues, this cucumber salad will have everyone clamoring for seconds, and trust me—the flavor experience is nothing short of amazing! For more inspiration, check out this strawberry spinach salad recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy cucumber salad with garlic and dill pickle vinaigrette combines fresh ingredients for an effortless and delicious side dish
- The lively flavors keep every bite interesting and fun to eat
- Vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table or picnic spread
- It’s versatile enough to pair well with grilled meats or simply enjoyed on its own as a light snack
Sharing this dish at summer gatherings always brings smiles and compliments from family and friends who can’t get enough of it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Use firm cucumbers for the best crunch; English cucumbers are my go-to for their mild flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic punch; avoid the pre-minced stuff if you can.
- Dill Pickles: Choose your favorite dill pickles; their brine adds a zesty kick that’s irresistible.
- Red Onion: Adds sweetness and crunch; thinly slice it for even distribution throughout the salad.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s flavor profile; don’t skimp here!
- Red Wine Vinegar: Brightens the dressing with acidity; white vinegar can work too if that’s what you have. Grilled Eggplant with Herbs.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all other flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers under cold running water. Slice them thinly—about 1/4 inch thick—for that perfect crunch.
Mix the Vinaigrette: In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma should be heavenly!
Add Dill Pickles and Onion: Chop up those dill pickles into small pieces and finely slice your red onion. Toss them into the bowl with cucumbers.
Toss Everything Together: Gently combine all ingredients in a large bowl using your hands or tongs—be careful not to mush those cucumbers!
Chill Before Serving: Cover your creation and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Savor Every Bite!: Serve chilled as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic—watch as people come back for more!
This cucumber salad with garlic and dill pickle vinaigrette is not just a side dish; it’s an experience! The crunch of fresh cucumbers paired with zesty pickles creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting seconds (or thirds). Fresh Chicken Salad Bowls So go ahead, whip up this delightful salad—it’s guaranteed to bring joy to any meal!
You Must Know
- This delightful cucumber salad with garlic and dill pickle vinaigrette not only bursts with flavor but is also incredibly refreshing
- The crunch of fresh cucumbers combined with the zesty dressing makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion, ensuring your guests will keep coming back for more
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly for maximum crunch. Prepare the vinaigrette while the cucumbers drain to let excess moisture escape, ensuring a crisp salad.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in red onions or cherry tomatoes for added color. A sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate flavors and bring creaminess to the mix.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cucumber salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best served cold and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, let sliced cucumbers sit with salt for 30 minutes before draining
- Experiment with different pickles if you want varied flavors in your vinaigrette
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to achieve your perfect balance
Sharing this cucumber salad recipe reminds me of summer picnics where friends raved about its refreshing taste, making it a staple at every gathering.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in this cucumber salad?
Absolutely! Add bell peppers or radishes for varied textures and flavors.
How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?
Salt the cucumbers before mixing to draw out excess moisture, keeping them crisp.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Dill Pickle Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this cucumber salad with garlic and dill pickle vinaigrette is the perfect side dish for summer gatherings. The vibrant combination of crunchy cucumbers, zesty dill pickles, and aromatic garlic creates a delightful taste experience that everyone will love. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, it’s an irresistible addition to picnics or barbecues that keeps friends and family coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers (about 2 large cucumbers)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers under cold water and slice them thinly (about 1/4 inch thick).
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add chopped dill pickles and sliced red onion to the bowl. Toss in the cucumbers gently.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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