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Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this incredibly refreshing Cucumber Salad with Herb Garlic Vinaigrette! This vibrant salad is a true celebration of fresh flavors, combining crisp cucumbers and thinly sliced red onion with a zesty, aromatic dressing that will awaken your taste buds. It’s the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal, from grilled chicken to a hearty sandwich, and it’s especially delightful on a warm day.
What makes this recipe a standout? It’s not just the invigorating crunch of the cucumbers or the subtle bite of the red onion; it’s the homemade herb garlic vinaigrette that truly brings it all together. Infused with aromatic dried herbs, pungent garlic, and a hint of Dijon, this dressing coats every slice with a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Best of all, this salad comes together in a mere 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious addition to your table. If you love quick and fresh recipes, you might also enjoy our easy tortellini soup!
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vibrant side for your next barbecue, or simply a way to enjoy fresh produce, this Cucumber Salad with Herb Garlic Vinaigrette is sure to become a new favorite. Its simplicity belies its incredible taste, proving that sometimes the best dishes are made with the fewest, freshest ingredients. For more healthy and delicious ideas, check out our guide on how to make juicy baked chicken breast.
Ingredients
To create this delightful cucumber salad, you willóneed the following fresh ingredients:
- 3 standard cucumbers (or 2 long Telegraph/English cucumbers)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
For the Herb Garlic Vinaigrette:
- 1 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 3/4 tsp mixed dried herbs
- 1/2 tsp white sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper, EACH
How to Make Cucumber Salad with Herb Garlic Vinaigrette
Follow these simple steps to prepare your refreshing cucumber salad:
Prepare the Herb Garlic Vinaigrette: In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic clove, Dijon mustard, mixed dried herbs, optional white sugar, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and emulsified. Alternatively, you can whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Consider using a quality dressing shaker for effortless mixing. Understanding the benefits of a balanced diet is key; for more information on healthy eating, visit USDA.gov.
Prepare the Cucumbers and Red Onion: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Trim off both ends of the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, approximately 3 mm (1/8 inch) thick. For a more uniform look and quicker preparation, a mandoline is highly recommended. Finely dice the half red onion. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain well before use. For other kitchen appliance recommendations, you might find our review of the best Ninja portable blenders helpful.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the thinly sliced cucumbers and the finely diced red onion into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for easy tossing. Using a durable mixing bowl set can make this step more convenient. For more health tips related to fresh produce, consult resources like Healthline.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared herb garlic vinaigrette over the cucumbers and red onion in the mixing bowl. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad until all the cucumber and onion slices are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve the cucumber salad immediately to enjoy its crisp texture and fresh flavors. For an elegant presentation, serve in a beautiful salad serving bowl. You might also be interested in other kitchen gadgets like those mentioned in best-seller slushie machines on Amazon.
Cucumber Salad with Herb Garlic Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 3 cucumbers, standard (or 2 long Telegraph/English cucumber)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 3/4 tsp mixed dried herbs
- 1/2 tsp white sugar(optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper, EACH
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb Garlic Vinaigrette: In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic clove, Dijon mustard, mixed dried herbs, optional white sugar, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and emulsified. Alternatively, you can whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Consider using a quality dressing shaker for effortless mixing.
- Prepare the Cucumbers and Red Onion: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Trim off both ends of the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, approximately 3 mm (1/8 inch) thick. For a more uniform look and quicker preparation, a mandoline is highly recommended. Finely dice the half red onion. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain well before use.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the thinly sliced cucumbers and the finely diced red onion into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for easy tossing. Using a durable mixing bowl set can make this step more convenient.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared herb garlic vinaigrette over the cucumbers and red onion in the mixing bowl. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad until all the cucumber and onion slices are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve the cucumber salad immediately to enjoy its crisp texture and fresh flavors. For an elegant presentation, serve in a beautiful salad serving bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
What kind of cucumbers are best for this salad?
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
How long does this cucumber salad last?
Conclusion
This Cucumber Salad with Herb Garlic Vinaigrette is more than just a side dish; it’s a burst of freshness and flavor that brightens any meal. Its simplicity, speed of preparation, and refreshing taste make it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. The zesty vinaigrette, with its aromatic herbs and punchy garlic, truly transforms humble cucumbers and red onions into an unforgettable culinary experience.
We encourage you to try this recipe tonight and discover just how easy and rewarding it is to create something so delicious from scratch. It’s a versatile salad that pairs well with virtually anything, from a light summer lunch to a robust dinner. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or even add a sprinkle of feta for an extra layer of flavor!
Share your creations with us, and let us know how this delightful cucumber salad brightened your day. Happy cooking!
