Cucumber slaw is a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer meals, picnics, barbecues, or as a topping for sandwiches and tacos. It’s a simple and healthy dish that highlights the crisp and cool qualities of cucumbers. Here’s a basic recipe to make cucumber slaw:
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (you can peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (you can also use parsley or cilantro for different flavors)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra color and texture. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife, mandoline, or a vegetable slicer. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Add Fresh Dill: Chop the fresh dill and add it to the bowl as well. If you prefer a different herb, like parsley or cilantro, you can use that instead.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, red onion, and dill in the large mixing bowl.
- Toss: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the cucumber slaw is well coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cucumber slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the slaw to become crisp and refreshing.
- Serve: Serve the cucumber slaw as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or tacos. It’s also great on its own as a light and healthy snack.
Cucumber slaw is a wonderful way to enjoy the crispness and mild flavor of cucumbers, especially during hot summer months. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy!