Cool As a Cucumber Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
Cool as a Cucumber: Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
Ever get that craving for something light and fresh? Honestly, me too! That's where this creamy dill cucumber salad comes in.
It's my go-to when I want something quick, easy, and packed with flavour. Think refreshing cucumbers, zingy dill, and a creamy dressing that'll make you say "Oh my gosh!"
This isn't just any cucumber salad . Its origins trace back to hearty German fare but think about a twist on the British cucumber salad .
It's a nod to tradition with a distinctly creamy and fresh profile. It's seriously easy to make even I can manage it, and let's just say my cooking skills are.
.. developing! Prep takes about 20 minutes, plus half an hour chilling time. It makes about six servings. Perfect for sharing, or keeping to yourself, I won't judge!
Why You'll Love This Salad
Let's get real: This salad is good for you. Packed with hydrating cucumbers and protein rich yogurt, it’s a healthy choice.
More importantly, it tastes amazing! It is really a great Summer salad . Serve it at your next BBQ, picnic, or even just a light lunch.
What makes it special? It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh. The Dill cucumber salad adds the most incredible flavour.
Time to Gather Your Bits
Right, let's talk ingredients. You'll need: 2 big English cucumbers, Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche if you’re feeling fancy), mayo (proper full fat stuff!), white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh dill and chives, garlic (optional), black pepper, a pinch of sugar, and salt.
Don’t skimp on the fresh dill it's what makes this dill cucumber salad sing! If you have a garden, grab some fresh herbs!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Alright, so you wanna whip up this banging creamy dill cucumber salad ? I tell you what. It is easier than making a cuppa.
The right ingredients and gear is essential. Don't worry! It's all pretty basic.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
- Cucumbers: You will need 2 large English cucumbers. That is about 700g/ 1.5 lbs . Thinly slice them. Quality wise, get firm ones without soft spots.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon of kosher salt ( 6g ). It helps with moisture.
- Yogurt: 1 cup (240ml) of full fat Greek yogurt. Crème fraîche works too. Use that for richness.
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (60ml) of real mayonnaise. Do not use salad cream, mate!.
- Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml) of white wine vinegar. Apple cider vinegar does the trick.
- Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml) of Dijon mustard. Gives it a kick.
- Dill: 2 tablespoons (about 10g) of fresh dill, chopped finely.
- Chives: 1 tablespoon (about 5g) of fresh chives, chopped finely.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced (optional, but come on!).
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) of freshly ground black pepper.
- Sugar: A pinch. Just to balance flavors.
- Salt: To taste. Do not be shy.
My grandma always swore by fresh ingredients. Honestly, it does make a difference! Using fresh dill in this dill cucumber salad is key for that summery taste.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town, Population: You
This salad is all about that dill and vinegar combo. It is like a summer party in your mouth. Garlic? Use that if you love it.
Black pepper? Ground fresh, it's got so much more oomph. My secret? A tiny pinch of sugar to cut through the tang.
Also consider the yogurt cucumber salad variation!.
No dill? Honestly, just use parsley but it won't be the same. Apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar? Sorted. Just tweak it till it tastes amazing.
Equipment Needed: Nothing Fancy
- A large mixing bowl. Duh.
- A smaller bowl for the dressing.
- Cutting board and knife.
- A whisk. For the dressing.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Accuracy matters!.
No mandoline? No worries!. A sharp knife works just fine for slicing those cucumbers. The point here is to easily make a cucumber salad ! If you're short on bowls, you can even mix it all in a big Tupperware container.
I do it all the time!
Cool as a Cucumber: Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad - Let's Get Started!
Honestly, sometimes the simplest things are the best. This creamy dill cucumber salad ? It's my go-to during the summer.
Think picnics, garden parties, and just generally feeling like you're having a proper British summer. It's light, refreshing, and dead easy to make.
It reminds me a bit of tzatziki but less intense. It is cucumber side dish perfection! You know, this is perfect alongside your Sunday roast, or even with a simple sandwich.
This salad brings a welcome coolness.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place for Maximum Flavour
First things first, let's get organised. Chop your 2 large English cucumbers (about 700g or 1.5 lbs ) into thin slices.
Trust me, thin is key. Get your 1 cup ( 240ml ) of full fat Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche if you're feeling fancy), 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) of proper mayonnaise (none of that salad cream nonsense), and the rest of your bits and bobs ready.
Having everything prepped just makes life easier, doesn't it? Think of it as your essential mise en place .
From Fridge to Fab: step-by-step Guide
Okay, here's the magic bit.
- Salt the Cucumbers: Toss your sliced cucumbers with 1 teaspoon ( 6g ) of kosher salt in a colander. This draws out the excess water. Let them sit for 30 minutes while you get the dressing sorted.
- Whip Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche ), mayonnaise , 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) of white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons (about 10g ) of fresh chopped dill, 1 tablespoon (about 5g ) of fresh chopped chives, and 1 minced clove of garlic (if you like). Season with 1/4 teaspoon ( 1g ) freshly ground black pepper and a tiny pinch of sugar (if needed).
- Combine with Care: Gently fold the drained and patted dry cucumber slices into the dressing.
- Chill Out: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes . This lets the flavors meld together nicely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled. Ta-da!
Pro Tips for a Pro Salad
Want to elevate your creamy cucumber salad even further? Here are a few tips.
Firstly, don't skimp on the fresh dill! It makes all the difference. And secondly, always salt and drain the cucumbers.
This prevents a soggy salad. Honestly, this summer salad will be your new go-to!
Recipe Notes for the Perfect Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
Right then, let's talk about making this creamy dill cucumber salad absolutely banging . Honestly, it's all about the details. These tips will take your cucumber side dish game to the next level.
Serving Suggestions: Make It Look the Part
This cucumber salad isn't just a taste sensation; it's a looker too. For plating, think fresh and vibrant. Serve it in a pretty bowl.
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill on top is a must. I reckon it's perfect alongside some grilled salmon. A slice of lemon on the side adds a pop of color.
Or even some roast chicken. A pint of chilled elderflower cordial is the ideal drink to complete the meal. It enhances the light, summery vibes.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
You know, this dill cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh. But life happens. If you've got leftovers, here's the deal.
Pop it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Don't even think about freezing it .
The cucumbers go all weird and mushy. Nobody wants that. Reheating isn't really a thing with this salad, just stir and enjoy chilled.
Variations: Tweak It Your Way
Fancy a change? You can totally mess about with this recipe. Want a lighter version? Swapping the mayo for extra Greek yogurt works a charm.
This makes it a yogurt cucumber salad of dreams. Going dairy-free? No worries! Use plant based yogurt and avocado mayo. Swap the crème fraîche salad dressing .
For a summer salad with a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Or maybe some Tzatziki if you feel like that British cucumber salad
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
This creamy cucumber salad isn't just delicious; it's pretty good for you too. We are estimating at about 95 calories per serving.
It also offers 4g of protein, 7g of fat, and 5g of carbs. Cucumbers are super hydrating. Greek yogurt adds a protein punch.
Dill is packed with antioxidants. It's a winning combination.
So there you have it. All the insider tips for making the perfect German cucumber salad that has morphed into the creamy dill cucumber salad .
Go on, give it a go! You'll be chuffed with the results, I promise!
Frequently Asked Questions
My creamy dill cucumber salad turned out watery! What did I do wrong?
Ah, the dreaded watery salad! The most likely culprit is skipping the salting and draining step for the cucumbers. Cucumbers are mostly water, so tossing them with salt and letting them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes draws out that excess moisture.
Pat them dry with paper towels before adding the dressing, and you'll be golden!
Can I make creamy dill cucumber salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, be aware that the cucumbers might release a bit more liquid as they sit, so give it a good stir before serving.
It's best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal texture, but it can keep in the fridge for a couple of days - just expect it to get a little softer, like a cucumber pickle left a bit too long.
I'm not a huge fan of mayonnaise. Can I substitute anything in this creamy dill cucumber salad recipe?
Good shout! While the mayo adds richness, you can definitely swap it out. Try using all Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche) for a tangier, healthier version. Or, you could use half mayo and half Greek yogurt to strike a balance. You could even use avocado based mayo!
Each one provides a slightly different flavour profile, so experiment to see what suits your taste buds best. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, innit?
Is creamy dill cucumber salad healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Compared to many side dishes, this salad is relatively healthy. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while Greek yogurt adds a boost of protein and calcium. It's a good source of vitamins and minerals! However, the mayonnaise does add some fat, so you can lighten it up with the substitutions mentioned above.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh in this creamy dill cucumber salad?
While you can use dried dill in a pinch, the flavor won't be nearly as vibrant as fresh. Fresh herbs really make this dish sing! If you must use dried, use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill called for in the recipe.
But honestly, fresh is best think of it like using instant coffee versus a proper barista made brew!
Cool As A Cucumber Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 95 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
