Cool As a Cucumber Dill Lemon Vinaigrette
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever feel like your salads are missing that je ne sais quoi ? This cucumber salad dressing recipe is your answer. It's a proper sunshine in a bottle, zingy and fresh!
Brief Overview
This bright lemon vinaigrette recipe is inspired by the classic flavours of Greek salads. Ready in 15 minutes, it serves about 8. It's a total doddle to make, trust me!
Main Benefits
The Greek yogurt adds a healthy dose of protein. It’s champion for summer barbecues or a quick lunch. What makes it special? It's the cucumber dill dressing – that's the secret!
This Easy salad dressing recipe is a must try.
Making it is a breeze.
Let's Talk Cucumber Dill Dressing
Honestly, I've been obsessed with this homemade salad dressing since I first tried it. It all started when I was trying to recreate a dressing I had at a little taverna in Greece so fresh! That's where the inspiration for this Creamy cucumber dressing recipe came from.
This is more than just a summer salad dressing . It is also a cucumber dressing for fish .
Why You'll Love This Cucumber Dill Dressing Recipe
This isn't your run-of-the-mill dressing. It's got a refreshing salad dressing vibe that wakes up your taste buds. The best part? It's so easy to whip up.
I've even been known to throw it together while juggling a phone call and a toddler. Talk about multitasking!
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Salad's Best Mates
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks! What you need to make this cucumber salad dressing sing. Honestly, it's all pretty basic stuff. You probably have half of it already!
Main Ingredients: The Starry Lineup
- 1 medium cucumber (about 1 cup chopped, or 240 ml ): Look for firm, dark green cucumbers. Avoid the ones that are soft. They are not as fresh.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (about 60 ml ): Full fat is richer, but low-fat works too. Your call!
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill , chopped ( 30 ml ): Fresh dill makes all the difference. It's the real MVP!
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ( 30 ml ): Go for good quality. It'll shine through!
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice ( 15 ml ): Bottled juice? Nah. Fresh is best.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ( 5 ml ): Adds a bit of zing.
- ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, 2.5 ml ): For a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt ( 1.25 ml ): Seasoning is key, bruv!
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ( 0.6 ml ): A little goes a long way.
Seasoning Notes: Amp Up the Flavor
Dill and lemon? A match made in heaven! This is a classic combo for a cucumber dill dressing . You know? That perfect summer salad dressing flavour.
For extra oomph, try adding a tiny pinch of garlic powder. It's my little secret for a refreshing salad dressing .
Want a creamy cucumber dressing ? Use full fat Greek yogurt. If you do not have cucumber salad dressing with dill , you can also experiment! Mint would be a nice change, you know? And if you're feeling adventurous, a tiny bit of wasabi will give it a kick! If you are missing honey, you can use maple syrup.
You can also use agave nectar. But, honey substitution might affect the sweetness of the recipe.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Food processor or blender: A must for a smooth easy salad dressing recipe .
- Cutting board: For chopping the cucumber.
- Knife: Sharp is safer!
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy helps!
- Small bowl: For tasting and adjusting, innit?
Don't have a food processor? A blender will do just fine. Even a NutriBullet type gadget will work for this homemade salad dressing .
And if you don't have measuring spoons, just eyeball it! It's not baking, so you have wiggle room. You can use that to make a lemon vinaigrette recipe as well.
This cucumber dressing for fish will change your meals.
Cool as a Cucumber: Dill & Lemon Vinaigrette
Honestly, who doesn't love a refreshing salad dressing on a hot day? This cucumber salad dressing is my go-to. Think crisp cucumber, zingy lemon, and fragrant dill.
It elevates a simple salad to something special. Inspired by the best cucumber salad recipes, this version adds a touch of sophistication.
It’s like sunshine in a bowl, guv’nor!
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place : Peel, seed, and chop 1 medium cucumber. Roughly chop is fine it's going in the blender anyway! Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
Time saving organization tips : Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start. It makes the whole process so much smoother. You know?
step-by-step Vinaigrette Magic
- Prepare the Cucumber : Peel, seed, and roughly chop that cucumber.
- Combine : In your food processor or blender, add the cucumber, ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of dill, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon honey (optional), ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon pepper.
- Blend : Whizz it all up until it's completely smooth and creamy.
- Taste : Give it a taste! This is where you become the chef.
- Adjust : Add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or honey to your liking.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Dressing
Want to take your homemade salad dressing to the next level? Use fresh dill, always! It makes a world of difference.
Don't over blend the cucumber. You want a creamy dressing, not watery mess! This cucumber dill dressing is best after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
It allows the flavours to properly mix. You can also make this easy salad dressing recipe up to 3 days in advance.
Store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
This creamy cucumber dressing is also amazing over grilled fish. Especially salmon! You can substitute sour cream or creme fraiche for Greek Yogurt.
It will still taste delicious. For a dairy-free version, try coconut yogurt! This lemon vinaigrette recipe is so versatile. It's also fantastic for a Summer salad dressing
Recipe Notes
Alright, luvs, before you dive headfirst into making this cucumber salad dressing , let's have a chinwag about some little bits and bobs that'll make your life easier.
This easy salad dressing recipe is pretty forgiving, but a few pointers never hurt, right? Honestly, these are the things I wish I knew the first time I made it!
How to Serve Your Amazing Cucumber Salad Dressing
Right then, how do you fancy serving this refreshing salad dressing ? First off, presentation is key. A drizzle over a simple green salad looks proper posh.
Think about serving it with thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion. The classic cucumber salad just screams summer.
Fancy something a bit different? Try it with grilled veg. Asparagus, courgettes, peppers... the lot. And here's a little secret: this cucumber dressing for fish is absolutely banging with grilled salmon.
You know? Total game changer.
Keeping Your Cucumber Salad Dressing Fresh
Okay, so you've made a batch of this creamy cucumber dressing , now what? Simple. Stick it in the fridge.
It'll keep happily for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavours actually get better over time, like a fine wine.
.. or a good cup of tea. Don't even think about freezing it though the texture will go all weird.
Reheating isn't really necessary, but give it a good stir before using. Honestly, though, it's best served cold. If you're feeling fancy, keep it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavours really get to know each other.
Cucumber Salad Dressing Variations
Fancy a bit of a twist? No worries. This lemon vinaigrette recipe is super versatile. Want a bit of a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Feeling herby? Swap the dill for mint or chives.
Trying to be a bit healthier? Use low-fat Greek yogurt. Want to go totally dairy-free? Use coconut yogurt. Also, for an extra burst of flavour you can consider making cucumber dill dressing
Little Bit About Nutrition
Okay, so this homemade salad dressing isn't exactly a health food, but it's not bad either. It's mostly cucumber and yogurt, so you're getting some good vitamins and probiotics.
Plus, the lemon juice gives you a little boost of vitamin C. One serving has about 45 calories. Not bad, eh?
So there you have it! Give this summer salad dressing a go. It's so easy, even I can make it without setting off the smoke alarm. I believe in you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cucumber salad dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dressing is a great make-ahead option. In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavours have had a chance to meld together in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before serving, like you're Tom Cruise in Cocktail!
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt? What can I substitute in this cucumber salad dressing?
No Greek yogurt? No worries! You can substitute with sour cream or crème fraîche, which will give you a similar creamy texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream, but be aware that they might slightly alter the overall flavour profile.
Think of it as putting your own spin on a classic, a bit like a modern art reimagining of the Mona Lisa!
My cucumber salad dressing is too thick! How do I thin it out?
If your dressing is too thick for your liking, the easiest fix is to add a tablespoon or two of water, blending after each addition until you reach the desired consistency. You could also use a little extra lemon juice or olive oil. Just remember to go slowly you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Is there anything I can add to give this cucumber salad dressing a bit of a kick?
Fancy a bit of zing, do you? To spice things up, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favourite hot sauce. A small amount of finely grated ginger or a minced jalapeno pepper can also add a lovely warmth and depth of flavour.
You could even try adding a tiny bit of horseradish, but go easy on it, unless you're trying to breathe fire!
How long does this cucumber salad dressing last, and how should I store it?
This delicious dressing will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any other fridge flavours. Before serving, give it a good shake or a whisk to re-emulsify the ingredients, ensuring it's as good as new. No soggy salads on our watch!
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh in this cucumber salad dressing recipe?
While fresh dill is definitely preferred for its vibrant flavour and aroma, you can use dried dill in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh. Give it a taste and add more if needed.
Although, if you're going for "posh" stick to the fresh stuff if you can!
Cool As A Cucumber Dill Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 45 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |