Yield

4–6 servings

Preparation Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Marinating: 1–4 hours
• Total: 1 hour 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4–5 medium cucumbers (about 700–800 g)
• 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Cucumbers

1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly.
2. Slice into thick rounds (about ¼–½ inch thick).
3. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Olive oil
• Vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Step 3: Combine

1. Add minced garlic and chopped dill to cucumbers.
2. Pour dressing over cucumbers.
3. Toss until every slice is coated.

Step 4: Marinate

1. Transfer to a container with a lid.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. For best flavor, marinate 3–4 hours.
4. Shake or stir once during marination.

Step 5: Serve

Serve chilled as:

• BBQ side dish
• Sandwich topping
• Healthy snack
• Summer salad

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1 of 6 servings)

Approximate values:

Values vary depending on cucumber size and amount of oil used.

Health Benefits

Cucumbers

• Very hydrating (about 95% water)
• Low calorie
• Contains antioxidants
• Good source of vitamin K

Dill

• Rich in antioxidants
• Adds flavor without extra calories
• Contains small amounts of calcium and iron

Garlic

• Contains beneficial sulfur compounds
• Adds strong flavor and aroma
• May support heart health when part of a balanced diet

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: How long does this salad last?

Answer: 3–4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?

Answer: Yes. It’s often better after a few hours because the cucumbers absorb the dressing.

Q3: Can I use dried dill?

Answer: Yes. Use 1 tablespoon dried dill instead of 3 tablespoons fresh dill.

Q4: Why are my cucumbers watery?

Answer: Cucumbers naturally release water while marinating. Drain excess liquid before serving if desired.

Q5: Can I make it spicy?

Answer: Yes. Add:

• Extra red pepper flakes
• Jalapeño slices
• Chili oil
• Hot sauce

Q6: Is this keto-friendly?

Answer: Yes. Omit the sugar or use a keto-friendly sweetener.

Q7: Can I use English cucumbers?

Answer: Absolutely. English, Persian, or garden cucumbers all work well.

Q8: Can I add other ingredients?

Answer: Great additions include:

• Red onion
• Feta cheese
• Cherry tomatoes
• Avocado
• Sesame seeds

Q9: Can I freeze it?

Answer: No. Frozen cucumbers become soft and watery after thawing.

Q10: What protein pairs well with this salad?

Answer:

• Grilled chicken
• Salmon
• Shrimp
• Turkey
• Tofu

Recipe Variations

Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad

Add:

• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Asian-Inspired Version

Replace dressing with:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Mediterranean Version

Add:

• Feta cheese
• Kalamata olives
• Extra lemon juice