Cucumbers Salad

There’s something magical about a plate of cucumbers with a BANG. Imagine biting into a crisp cucumber, its coolness instantly refreshing your senses, while the explosion of flavors dances on your palate. It’s like a summer picnic in your mouth, where every crunch sings ‘happiness’ and the zesty dressing brings the party to life. light summer dessert Perfect for barbecues or as a light snack, this dish is not just food; it’s an experience that demands attention.

The first time I made cucumbers with a BANG, my friends thought I was trying to impress them with advanced culinary skills. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t! I whipped it up in under 10 minutes, and they were convinced I had studied at some fancy culinary school. Their faces lit up like kids in a candy store when they tasted it, proving that sometimes simplicity packs the biggest punch. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Healthy Lentil Curry recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This cucumber dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it accessible for anyone
  • The flavor profile is refreshingly tangy and savory, perfect for hot days
  • Its vibrant colors make it a visual feast that brightens any table setting
  • Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a healthy snack on its own

I once had my cousin try this recipe at our family reunion; her eyes widened in delight as she reached for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers; English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds.
  • Red Onion: A little bite adds depth; slice thinly to keep it from overpowering.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet gems provide color and juicy bursts; halving them makes them perfect for snacking.
  • Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and saltiness; opt for high-quality cheese for the best taste.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; drizzle generously for richness.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up; avoid bottled juice if you can.
  • Dill or Mint: Fresh herbs elevate the dish; choose based on your mood—dill is classic, but mint feels refreshing!
  • Salt and Pepper: A must for seasoning; adjust to taste according to your preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by preparing your cucumbers: Rinse them under cold water and dry thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thickness. You want those crunchy slices to shine!

Next step involves the onions: Peel and slice the red onion into thin rings or half-moons. This step ensures their flavor is present without overwhelming your taste buds. Remember, we’re going for balance here.

Now it’s time for cherry tomatoes: Slice each tomato in half so their sweet juices mingle with the cucumbers and onions. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal while providing extra flavor explosions with every bite.

Create the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. hearty salad bowl This mixture should be bright and tangy, perfectly complementing our beautiful veggies! For more inspiration, check out this Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad recipe.

Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, feta cheese, and dill or mint with the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Taste as you go, adjust seasoning if needed!

Lastly, let it rest: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully together. creative macaroni salad Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Enjoy this refreshing dish at picnics or dinner parties, it’s bound to steal the spotlight!

You Must Know

  • Cucumbers with a BANG are not just a side dish; they can steal the show
  • The crunchiness of fresh cucumbers paired with bright flavors makes for a refreshing experience
  • Perfect for picnics or barbecues, they also add a colorful twist to any meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing your cucumbers evenly to ensure they soak up all the flavors. Then, marinate them for at least 30 minutes to really bring out that zesty kick.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cucumbers for other crunchy veggies like bell peppers or carrots. refreshing crunchy salad Add spices like dill or chili flakes for an extra punch of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cucumbers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They taste best cold, so no need to reheat!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture; avoid soft ones that lose their crunch
  • Make sure to slice them uniformly for even marination and flavor absorption
  • Don’t skip on marinating time; it’s crucial for achieving that delicious zing!

Sometimes I turn into a cucumber whisperer when friends rave about these! Their delight is priceless, especially when they realize they’re devouring vegetables without even trying.

FAQ

What kind of cucumbers should I use for Cucumbers with a BANG?

Choose English or Persian cucumbers for their crispness and mild flavor.

How long should I marinate the cucumbers?

Marinate the cucumbers for at least 30 minutes to get maximum flavor infusion.

Can I make Cucumbers with a BANG ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance; just keep them refrigerated until serving.

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Cucumbers with a BANG


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  • Author: Jessica Harper
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Cucumbers with a BANG is a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor, perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy snack. Crisp cucumbers mingle with sweet cherry tomatoes and tangy feta, all drizzled with a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This easy-to-make salad is not only visually appealing but also delivers a delightful crunch that will leave your taste buds dancing. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups sliced cucumbers (about 2 medium English cucumbers)
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers, then slice them thinly for maximum crunch.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion into rings or half-moons.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes, allowing their juices to blend with the other ingredients.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a bright dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs; pour the dressing over and toss gently until everything is coated.
  6. Chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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