I don't know about you, but in my mind, nothing says summer like a fresh and bright cucumber salad. This simple recipe is perfect for those scorching hot days when all you want to eat are things that feel fresh. The perfect salad to prep for a backyard barbecue, or whip together for your picnic basket…or actually maybe it is just the best dang fresh tasting healthy side you have been looking for.



Ingredients:

2 Xenia cucumbers: These little guys are the star of the salad, adding a refreshing crunch.

1/4 red onion (if desired, for color and zing)

1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley: A spark of something green and alive that wakes the rest of the salad up.

1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar – I love the tangy punch this adds to the salad!

A splash of extra-virgin olive oil: It gives the broth a bit more body and marries all the ingredients.

A teaspoon of sugar, agave or honey: Just a touch to offset the vinegar.

Enhances all the flavors1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)

1/ 4 teaspoon fresh black pepper: Adds the kick.

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for those who enjoy the savory notes)

Onion powder: Complements the red onion if you have it.

Instructions:



Prepare the Cucumbers:

If you do not like the skin of cucumbers, peel them. If you want to add a bit more fibre and bite, leave the skin on. Thinly sliced is best as it needs to be crisped up. If you have a mandoline slicer, using it might help achieve the desired result plus ensure uniform slices.

Red Onion (optional) Prep:


Sliver the red onion, if using. Soft drink the cuts in some ice water for 10 minutes to remove its bite. This will help to give the onion a more mild, crisp taste.


Make the Dressing:


Whisk together in a small bowl: vinegar, oil, sugar or honey as well and optional garlic and onion powders. It will the salad give a subtle flavor of both tangy and sweet as well savory.





Combine Ingredients:


Combine the cucumber and red onion (if using) in a large bowl. Finish with the chopped dill or parsley. Now give everything a nice drizzle of the dressing and gently toss to combine (make sure all that great flavor coats your veggies!)


Chill and Serve:


Allow the salad to rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature, so that flavors mix well. Worse case scenario you can even chill it in the fridge for a bit (up to an hour) which makes them THAT much more refreshing. Toss again before serving, and taste for seasoning.


Print Recipe Easy Cucumber Salad This cucumber is easy as it gets. A great summer potluck side dish or an easy, healthy dinner. With the zesty tang and refreshing chill, this simple salad is sure to delight!