Cucumber Salad Recipe With Mayo

Cucumber salad with mayo is a simple and tasty dish you’ll enjoy. Start by peeling and thinly slicing cucumbers. You can sprinkle salt to remove extra moisture. Then mix mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic powder, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the cucumbers and red onion in this dressing. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, which helps the flavors blend. This salad pairs well with grilled foods and is invigorating on warm days. Keep reading for more tips and variations!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

Cucumber salad is a revitalizing dish that you can easily whip up in no time. You’ll love this recipe for several reasons.

• Nutritional Benefits: It’s high in protein when you add ingredients like tuna, while cucumbers provide hydration, fiber, and essential vitamins.

• Versatility: You can use regular or English cucumbers and slice them as you prefer. Cucumbers can be sliced thinly for a refreshing crunch.

• Customization: With various dressings and additions like onions or sesame seeds, you can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

• Ease of Preparation: This salad takes under 10 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking.

• Health Balance: Use lighter dressings for a healthier option, and adding protein makes it a filling meal.

This salad is perfect for quick, nutritious meals!

Recipe

Cucumber salad is a revitalizing dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals, making it a staple for summer barbecues, picnics, or simple dinners. The crispness of the cucumbers paired with the sharpness of red onions, all enveloped in a creamy dressing, creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This versatile recipe can easily be adjusted to suit dietary preferences, making it a go-to option for both vegan and non-vegan diets. Preparing this dish is simple and quick, allowing you to whip it up in no time. It’s best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Creamy cucumber salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this cucumber salad is sure to please your palate. Let’s get started with the ingredients and the preparation steps!

Ingredients:
– Cucumbers, sliced thinly
– Red onion, thinly sliced (about half a large onion)
– Mayonnaise (3⁄4 cup for vegan version, 1⁄2 cup for non-vegan versions)
– Vinegar (1-2 tablespoons of white, red wine, or apple cider vinegar)
– Garlic powder
– Sugar
– Dill
– Salt
– Pepper

Instructions:
1. Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the cucumbers. If you’re using regular cucumbers, consider salting them lightly to help release excess liquid. While the cucumbers are resting, slice the red onion thinly.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic powder, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the vegetables are fully coated in the dressing.
4. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing.
5. Before serving, check the salad for excess liquid. If needed, drain any liquid to prevent sogginess. Serve chilled and enjoy!

For the best results, use fresh, crisp cucumbers and allow the salad to chill properly before serving. You might consider adding extra seasonings or fresh herbs for a personalized touch.

If you have any leftovers, it’s ideal to consume them within a couple of hours to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers. Enjoy your delightful cucumber salad!

Final Thoughts

When preparing a delightful cucumber salad, it’s important to contemplate how it fits into your meals and gatherings. This salad isn’t only invigorating but also nutritious. With cucumbers being low in calories and high in potassium, it makes a healthy side dish. You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. Additionally, this salad is low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their caloric intake.

Consider using different types of cucumbers and onions for variety. Fresh dill enhances the taste, while various vinegars can change the flavor profile.

Serve it at summer BBQs, potlucks, or alongside grilled meats and sandwiches. Remember, chilling the salad overnight can improve its flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayo in This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo. It offers a healthier option while maintaining creaminess. Just mix it well with your favorite flavors, and enjoy the nutritious benefits without losing taste.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Salad?

Like a fleeting summer breeze, leftover cucumber salad lasts only 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container, and check daily for freshness to guarantee every bite remains delightful.

Is This Salad Suitable for a Vegan Diet?

Yes, this salad is suitable for a vegan diet. It uses plant-based ingredients, ensuring it’s free from animal products. You’ll enjoy a healthy, flavorful option that aligns perfectly with your dietary choices.

What Type of Cucumbers Work Best for This Salad?

For the best cucumber salad, you’ll want to use Persian or English cucumbers. Their thin skin, minimal seeds, and crunchy texture make them ideal. If unavailable, regular cucumbers can work, but they might be less crisp.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Cucumber Salad?

You can enhance your salad’s flavor and texture by adding vibrant bell peppers or crunchy carrots. Just remember, balancing freshness with sweetness elevates every bite, creating a delightful contrast that’ll impress your guests.