This Refreshing Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad is super easy to make! It features crunchy cucumbers tossed in a zesty lemon dressing with a hint of fresh dill. Perfect for hot days!
I love how this salad is light and bright—it really perks up my meals. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up that I can enjoy a little extra me-time before dinner! 🍋🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch, pick English cucumbers—they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is too thick!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a lovely color and mild flavor. If you’re looking for something less intense, consider using green onions or shallots.
Dill: Fresh dill is the star here! If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can work in a pinch, but use less—about 1 teaspoon as it’s stronger. Some people even like parsley for a different twist.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice really brightens the salad. Bottled lemon juice lacks the same flavor, but if it’s all you have, it’s fine to use.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Extra Zesty?
The beauty of this salad lies in its dressing. To ensure maximum flavor, make sure to whisk the dressing ingredients well before pouring it over the veggies. This helps all the flavors come together. Plus, letting the salad sit for at least 10 minutes allows the cucumbers to soak up that tasty lemon dressing!
- Combine the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and seasonings until smooth.
- Pour over veggies and gently toss—not too much pressure, you don’t want to squish the cucumbers!
- Chill for a bit so the dressing works its magic!
Refreshing Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing the veggies and whisking up the delicious dressing, then just let the flavors meld for about 10 minutes before enjoying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the slices are nice and thin for the best flavor and texture!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and sugar or honey (if you’re using it) to help balance out the tanginess. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until it’s all combined and smooth.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the zesty dressing over the cucumbers and onions in the large bowl. Add the chopped fresh dill. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated in the dressing.
4. Let It Rest:
To enhance the flavor, let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing and the tastes to mingle beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for any meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and sandwiches!
Can I Use Different Herbs in This Salad?
Absolutely! While fresh dill gives the salad its signature flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, mint, or basil for a unique twist. Just use them fresh for the best taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the cucumbers may release some water as they sit, so give it a gentle toss before enjoying leftovers!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add in other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you’re adding significantly more ingredients.
Is This Salad Gluten-Free?
Yes! The Refreshing Lemon Dill Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
