This fresh lemon dill cucumber salad is a burst of flavor! Crisp cucumbers mix with zesty lemon juice and fragrant dill, making it a perfect side for any meal.
I love how refreshing this salad is, especially on warm days. It’s super easy to whip up, and I often find myself munching on it for a light snack. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Using medium cucumbers gives a crunchy texture. If you prefer a sweeter option, try English cucumbers or seedless varieties. Even zucchini can work if you’re feeling adventurous!
Dill: Fresh dill is the star here, offering a unique flavor. If fresh isn’t available, you can use dried dill, though start with a smaller amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. I personally love using fresh for that vibrant taste!
Lemon Juice and Zest: The juice and zest give brightness to the salad. If fresh lemons are out of season, bottled lemon juice is an option, but fresh really shines in this recipe. Lime juice can also be a fun twist here!
Honey/Sugar: This ingredient is optional, but it balances the tartness. For a healthier approach, consider agave syrup or maple syrup. A pinch of Stevia could work too!
Red Onion: I like the bite of red onion in this salad, but if it’s too strong for your taste, try green onions or chives. They have a milder flavor while still adding a bit of color.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Is Super Fresh?
The freshness of your ingredients matters greatly! Always opt for firm, shiny cucumbers, as they’ll have the best crunch. It’s important to slice them thinly to absorb all the dressing and flavors.
- If you’re preparing the salad in advance, keep the cucumber slices slightly dry to avoid sogginess.
- Mix the dressing separately and only toss it with the salad right before serving to maintain crispness.
Letting the salad sit for at least 10 minutes allows flavors to develop beautifully, enhancing the dish. If you can wait a bit longer, it gets even tastier!
Fresh Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Just slice your ingredients, mix them up, and let it rest for a bit to let the flavors mingle. If you’d like to chill it for added refreshment, you can pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your cucumbers thin and, if you’re using red onion, slice it as well. Place the cucumber slices and red onion in a large mixing bowl. The crunch of the cucumber mixed with the zestiness of red onion is fantastic!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey or sugar (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is well combined. This tangy dressing will really brighten up the salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Add the chopped fresh dill on top. Gently toss everything together to coat the cucumbers and onion evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to mash them—just a gentle toss will do!
4. Let It Rest:
Once combined, let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors blend together wonderfully. If you have a little more time, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes is a great idea!
5. Adjust and Serve:
Before serving, give the salad a taste. You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you like it zestier! Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish, and enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Fresh Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for a sweeter flavor and fewer seeds. Even regular slicing cucumbers work well – just peel them if the skin is too thick!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so you might want to drain excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can! Prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crispy. If you plan to make it the day before, consider keeping the dressing separate until serving time.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No worries! If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill (just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated). Alternatively, parsley or chives can also provide a nice flavor twist!
