Quick Mediterranean Cucumber Dill Salad (5 mins!)

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Are you looking for a light and refreshing salad to beat the summer heat? Look no further with this delightful Mediterranean Cucumber Dill Salad that is ready in 5 minutes!

Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, this salad is a perfect addition to any summer meal.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic in the park, or simply want a healthy side dish, this creamy cucumber salad will not disappoint!

The Star Ingredients:

1. English Cucumbers: The use of English cucumbers are essential for this salad. Their thin skin and mild flavor make them perfect for slicing, and they are less likely to be bitter or have large seeds.
2. Red Onion: Red onion thinly sliced brings a sharp taste with a subtle hint of sweetness and color contrast to the salad.
3. Fresh Chopped Dill: The aromatic and citrusy flavor of dill is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and elevates the taste of this salad to a whole new level.
4. Sour Cream: This creamy component binds all the ingredients together and adds a rich and tangy element to the salad.
5. Red Wine Vinegar: Providing a zesty kick, the red wine vinegar complements the fresh flavors of the cucumbers and dill.
6. Granulated Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances out the tanginess of the vinegar and sour cream. This ingredient is optional.
7. Garlic Powder: Enhancing the overall flavor profile, garlic powder adds a subtle savory note.
8. Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the salad to taste, salt and pepper bring out the best in all the ingredients.

The instructions for this Mediterranean Cucumber Dill Salad are so simple, you’ll be making it again and again!

1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel and then slice them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. If you prefer a crunchier salad, leave the skin on; otherwise, peel the cucumbers before slicing.
2. Next, thinly slice the half of a large red onion.
3. Take the fresh dill and chop it finely. Dill stems are edible and also have flavor, so feel free to include some of them if you desire.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, fresh dill, sour cream, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish.

Substitutions to suit your taste preferences or accommodate dietary restrictions:

1. Greek Yogurt: If you prefer a healthier alternative to sour cream, Greek yogurt can be substituted, providing a tangy and protein-rich option.
2. White Wine Vinegar or Lemon Juice: If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, you can use white wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice for a slightly different tang.
3. Fresh Herbs: While dill is the star herb in this salad, you can get creative and add other fresh herbs such as mint, parsley, or cilantro to add unique and exciting flavors.
4. Sweetener Options: Instead of granulated sugar, you can use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to sweeten the dressing.
5. Red Onion Variations: Not a fan of red onions? You can swap them with shallots or scallions for a milder onion flavor.

Pairing suggestions to create a wholesome and delicious meal:

1. Grilled Proteins: Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, fish, or tofu for a protein-packed main course. Try my Greek Marinade Chicken Recipe or my super easy Blackened Cod!
2. Pita Bread: Enjoy the salad stuffed inside warm pita bread, creating a refreshing and satisfying sandwich. Feeling adventurous and want to try making your own? Here is a great Pita bread recipe for you to try!
3. Quinoa or Couscous: Spoon the salad over cooked quinoa or couscous for a hearty and nutritious grain bowl.
4. Lamb Kebabs: The salad beautifully complements the flavors of succulent lamb kabobs, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Here is my delicious Turkish Adana Kebab recipe.

Storing the salad:

1. Refrigeration: Transfer any remaining salad into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2-3 days.
2. Separation: Due to the cucumbers’ high water content, the salad may release some liquid as it sits. Simply give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
3. Refreshing the Salad: If the salad appears a bit dry after refrigeration, you can add a small dollop of sour cream and toss it gently to revive its creamy texture.

With the crispness of English cucumbers, the aromatic touch of fresh dill, and the tangy creaminess of the sour cream dressing, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Versatile and easy to make, this salad can be tailored to your taste preferences by experimenting with substitutions and pairings.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, planning a picnic, or simply craving a healthy side dish, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

So, why wait? Grab your fresh ingredients, and let the flavors of the Mediterranean dance on your palate with this scrumptious Cucumber Dill Salad!