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As summer rolls on, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a cool and crisp cucumber salad. My Easy and Healthy Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish to take advantage of the season’s bounty. Made with a base of homemade mayo, this salad is not only delicious but also full of natural ingredients, making it a nutritious addition to your summer meals.
The Origins of the Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salads have been enjoyed around the world for centuries, with each culture adding its own unique twist. In Eastern Europe, especially in countries like Poland, Hungary, and Germany, cucumber salad (often called “Gurkensalat”) is a staple dish that is typically served with a tangy vinegar-based dressing. This reminds me of the NORTH CAROLINA BBQ SAUCE & COLE SLAW DRESSING twist. In contrast, Mediterranean versions often include yogurt and herbs, creating a creamy and refreshing side dish.
In Asia, cucumber salads are spiced up with chili, sesame oil, and soy sauce, offering a bold and flavorful experience. Regardless of its origin, the cucumber salad has remained a beloved dish worldwide, thanks to its versatility and refreshing qualities.
Some pickle recipes from the blog for other refreshing summer salad ideas:
Ingredients and Health Benefits of this gluten-free vegetable recipe
What sets my cucumber salad apart is the use of homemade mayo as the base. This allows you to control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced
- Red onion thinly sliced (I used the CUISINART)
- Homemade mayonnaise (made with egg, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil)
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cucumbers are packed with hydration, being over 95% water, making them a great choice for hot summer days. They also provide essential nutrients like vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, which support heart health and bone strength. The homemade mayo adds healthy fats from olive oil, which are good for your heart and help you absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Conclusion
This Easy and Healthy Cucumber Salad is not only a refreshing addition to your meal but also a nutritious choice that embraces the natural flavors of summer. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, picnic, or as a simple side dish, this cucumber salad is so delicious.
The vegetable cast of characters
Making the summer cucumber salad
The Easy and Healthy Cucumber Salad
Easy and Healthy Cucumber Salad
My Easy and Healthy Cucumber Salad is the perfect compliment to any summer meal or BBQ that you are hosting. A creamy and refreshing summer salad.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 Whole Cucumbers sliced
- 1 Whole Red Onion sliced
- 1 Bunch Fresh dill divided
Creamy Dressing
- 1 1/2 Cups Mayo homemade or store bought
- 2 Tbsp Apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 Tsp Salt
- 2 Tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
Creamy Dressing
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Combine all the ingredients using about 3/4 of the fresh dill. Set aside.
Making the Cucumber Salad
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Using a Cuisinart, slice the cucumbers and onions and add them to a bowl. Cover with the creamy salad dressing. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, add the remaining fresh dill.
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