Transform ordinary cucumbers into extraordinary salads with these two unique recipes that offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving something light and European-inspired or a creamy Asian fusion dish, these easy-to-make salads are perfect for any occasion.
Elegant Ribboned Cucumber Salad with Dill
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 medium cucumbers (approximately 500g)
- 60ml (¼ cup) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 15g (1 tablespoon) fresh dill, finely chopped
- 5ml (1 teaspoon) fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers (10 minutes)
- Wash and dry cucumbers thoroughly
- Using a vegetable peeler, create long ribbons by running it lengthwise down each cucumber
- Stop when you reach the seedy core
- Rotate cucumber and continue until all sides are ribboned
- Make the Dressing (5 minutes)
- In a medium bowl, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Add chopped fresh dill
- Stir in lemon juice
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Mix until well combined
- Assemble the Salad (5 minutes)
- Place cucumber ribbons in a serving bowl
- Pour dressing over cucumbers
- Gently toss until evenly coated
- Garnish with extra dill if desired
Creamy Asian-Style Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 medium cucumbers (approximately 500g), thinly sliced
- ½ medium red onion (approximately 100g), thinly sliced
- 60ml (¼ cup) mayonnaise
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) rice vinegar
- 15ml (1 tablespoon) sesame oil
- 30g fresh cilantro, chopped
- Red chili flakes to taste (optional)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables (10 minutes)
- Slice cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline
- Cut red onion into thin half-moons
- Roughly chop fresh cilantro
- Make the Dressing (5 minutes)
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise
- Add rice vinegar and sesame oil
- Season with salt to taste
- Mix until well combined
- Assemble the Salad (5 minutes)
- Add sliced cucumbers and onions to the bowl with dressing
- Toss gently until vegetables are well coated
- Add chopped cilantro
- Sprinkle with red chili flakes if desired
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Ribboned Cucumber Salad (per 1 cup serving)
- Calories: 45
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Asian-Style Cucumber Salad (per 1 cup serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Salt cucumbers and let them drain for 30 minutes before using to remove excess water
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds
- Chill bowls before serving for extra crispness
- Pat cucumbers dry before adding dressing
- Use a mandoline for uniform slices in the Asian-style salad
Variations and Substitutions
For Ribboned Cucumber Salad:
- Use mint instead of dill
- Substitute crème fraîche for sour cream
- Add thinly sliced radishes
- Include white wine vinegar for extra tang
For Asian-Style Cucumber Salad:
- Use Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise for authentic Asian flavor
- Add grated ginger
- Substitute scallions for red onion
- Include toasted sesame seeds
Common FAQs
Q: Can I make these salads ahead of time?
A: Both salads can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, but are best served within a few hours of making.
Q: Why are my cucumber salads watery?
A: Salt the cucumbers first and let them drain to prevent excess water release.
Q: How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?
A: Serve immediately or salt and drain cucumbers before combining with dressing.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Fresh herbs are recommended, but if using dried, use 1/3 of the amount called for fresh.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator
- Best consumed within 24 hours
- Do not freeze
- Drain any excess liquid before serving if made ahead
- Add fresh herbs just before serving if preparing in advance
These refreshing cucumber salads are perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish year-round. Their simplicity and versatility make them ideal for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties.
