Craving something fresh and vibrant? This Zesty Cucumber & Dill Salad is your answer. It's quick to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
The star of this salad is the humble cucumber. It provides a fresh and hydrating crunch, essential for the salad's texture. The red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite, balancing the cucumber's mildness. Dill is the herb of choice here, offering a fragrant, slightly citrusy note that ties everything together. The lemon juice serves as the acid component, brightening the flavors and adding a zesty punch. Olive oil is our fat, bringing everything together with its smooth, rich texture. A touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness, counteracting the tartness of the lemon. Finally, salt and black pepper enhance and balance the flavors.
This salad is versatile. Serve it alongside grilled fish for a light, healthy meal. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or as a refreshing counterpoint to spicy dishes. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it with a hearty grain like quinoa or farro.
First, grab your cucumbers. Give them a good rinse, then peel them completely. Once peeled, slice them thinly. You want them to be uniform so they soak up the dressing evenly. Next, take your red onion and slice it into thin rings; these will add a nice crunch and pop of color. Now, onto the dill. Chop it finely β you don't want big bits of dill overpowering a bite.
In your trusty large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Youβre creating a simple yet powerful dressing here. Once it's well combined, toss in your cucumbers, onions, and dill. Use your hands or a pair of tongs to mix everything until the veggies are well coated with the dressing.
Now, the hard part β waiting. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.