Cucumber salad with garlic and dill

Refreshing Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Dill

If you're looking for a quick and refreshing recipe, cucumber salad with garlic and dill is the perfect choice. This simple yet flavorful salad is an ideal accompaniment for summer meals but can be enjoyed in any season. Plus, the recipe is easy to adapt and can be customized to suit your preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients

- 5 medium cucumbers (approximately 350g)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon canola oil (or olive oil, according to preference)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A bunch of fresh dill

Brief History of the Recipe

Cucumber salad with garlic and dill is a traditional recipe found in many cultures, based on locally available ingredients that are easy to prepare. This salad is not only a great way to add fresh vegetables to your diet but also a method to highlight the natural flavors of garlic and dill. Cucumbers, known for their high water content, are perfect for maintaining hydration, especially on hot days.

Step by Step: How to Prepare the Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, use a sharp knife to slice them very thinly. If you prefer, you can use a salad grater or a mandoline to achieve even slices.

Step 2: Salting the Cucumbers
Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl and sprinkle salt over them. This process will help draw out excess water from the cucumbers, making the salad crisper and tastier. Let the cucumbers sit for a few minutes, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Dressing
In a small bowl, peel and crush the 3 cloves of garlic. Add the freshly ground pepper and mix well. Then, incorporate the canola oil and apple cider vinegar. Mix well until the dressing is smooth. If you want a stronger garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
After they have sat in salt, drain the liquid released by the cucumbers. This step is essential to prevent the salad from being too watery. Pour the garlic dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to ensure all slices are evenly coated.

Step 5: Adding the Dill
Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the salad bowl. The dill adds a fresh and distinct flavor, perfect for complementing the taste of the cucumbers and garlic. Mix again to distribute the dill evenly.

Step 6: Chilling the Salad
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld, and the salad becomes even more delicious.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Cucumbers: Opt for fresh, crunchy cucumbers. Persian cucumbers are excellent for this salad due to their texture.
- Enhancing Flavor: You can also add a splash of lemon juice to boost acidity and achieve a more vibrant flavor.
- Variations: Instead of garlic, you can experiment with finely chopped red onion or chili peppers for a spicy note.
- Serving: This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled dishes or can be served on a bed of green salad as a light main course.

Nutritional Information

This salad is not only delicious but also healthy. Cucumbers are high in water, helping to maintain hydration, while garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dill adds essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of salad contains about 80 calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pickled cucumbers in this recipe?
Yes, you can use pickled cucumbers, but make sure to reduce the amount of salt in the dressing.

What other ingredients can I add to the salad?
For an extra flavor boost, you can add sliced cherry tomatoes or Kalamata olives.

What are the best combinations for serving?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken steaks, but it also works as a side dish for rice-based dishes.

Final Note

Cucumber salad with garlic and dill is an excellent choice for any meal. It is quick to prepare, healthy, and, most importantly, delicious! Don't hesitate to experiment and customize your recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Enjoy!