This Easy Garlic Dill Cucumber recipe is a cool and crunchy treat perfect for snacks. Tangy dill and zesty garlic blend with fresh cucumbers for a refreshing bite!
I love how quick it is to whip up these snacks. Perfect for hot days or when I’m hungry but don’t want something heavy. Crunching on these makes me feel so healthy! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this recipe. I recommend using English cucumbers for their thinner skin and fewer seeds. If they’re hard to find, regular cucumbers work too—just peel them if the skin is thick.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a bright flavor, but if you only have dried dill, that’s okay! Use about one tablespoon of dried dill. Personally, I love adding extra dill for a more vibrant taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use a smaller amount—about 1/4 teaspoon equals one fresh clove.
Vinegar: I often use apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste, but white vinegar is a great choice, too. For a milder option, try rice vinegar!
Olive Oil: This is optional but adds richness. If you want a lighter dish, skip it or use a splash of water instead to help the dressing mix.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Dressing?
Mixing the dressing properly is crucial for maximum flavor. Here are some tips:
- Start by mixing garlic, dill, vinegar, and oil (if using), along with salt, pepper, and sugar. Make sure to blend well.
- Letting the cucumbers marinate for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors soak in. I find that 30 minutes is even better!
- For extra freshness, consider adding a pinch of lemon juice or zest. It brightens everything up nicely!
These steps will help your easy garlic dill cucumbers shine even more. Enjoy your refreshing snack!
Easy Garlic Dill Cucumber Recipe for Refreshing Snacks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cucumber Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing snack takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’ll need around 25 minutes total—perfect for a quick and easy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. After that, slice them thinly. A mandoline slicer can help you get even slices if you have one, but a sharp knife works just fine too.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped dill, vinegar, olive oil (if you choose to use it), salt, pepper, and sugar (if you like a touch of sweetness). Stir everything together well until it’s nicely blended.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the cucumbers until each slice is well-coated with the garlic dill mixture. This step is all about ensuring every cucumber gets that delicious flavor!
4. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the cucumbers extra crisp.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, give the cucumbers a quick toss, then serve in a bowl or plate. These make for a fantastic snack or a side dish to any meal. Enjoy your refreshing garlic dill cucumbers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Herbs Instead of Dill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have dill on hand, you can use fresh parsley or chives for a different flavor. Fresh cilantro also works well if you prefer a more vibrant taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Dill Cucumbers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The cucumbers may become softer over time but will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cucumbers and dressing ahead of time. Just toss everything together and refrigerate it for up to a day before serving, which can enhance the flavors even more.
What Can I Serve These With?
These garlic dill cucumbers are great on their own as a snack or can be served as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a summer picnic spread. Enjoy!
