5 Refreshing Cucumber Salad Recipes to Try Today

If you're looking to add a bit of crunch and freshness to your meals, cucumber salads are the perfect choice. Cucumbers are not only hydrating but also versatile, blending well with various flavors to create a palette of delicious salads. Here, we present five refreshing cucumber salad recipes that you can whip up in no time, each offering unique tastes and textures.

1. Classic Cucumber Tomato Salad

This timeless combination is both simple and satisfying:

• 3 medium cucumbers, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

To prepare:

1. Slice the cucumbers and tomatoes, place them in a bowl.
2. Add the red onion.
3. In a separate small bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and garnish with parsley.

2. Cucumber, Avocado, and Feta Salad

A perfect blend of creamy and crunchy:

• 2 cucumbers, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, cubed
• ¹⁄₂ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Lemon zest from 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• A pinch of salt
• Fresh dill or mint for garnish

Preparation steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers and avocado.
2. Add feta cheese, lemon zest, and juice.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, and gently toss.
4. Garnish with fresh dill or mint before serving.

3. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Introduce a spicy kick with this Korean-inspired salad:

• 4 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

How to make it:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, gochugaru, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Add cucumbers to the dressing and mix well.
3. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to marinate.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

🚨 Note: Gochugaru adds a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with red pepper flakes if not available.

4. Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

A touch of the Mediterranean with this vibrant salad:

• 2 large cucumbers, cubed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¹⁄₂ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• ¹⁄₂ cup crumbled feta
• ¹⁄₄ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

To make:

1. Mix cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta, and onion in a salad bowl.
2. Whisk together oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over the salad, mix, and let it rest for flavors to meld.
4. Top with fresh parsley before serving.

5. Cucumber Ribbon Salad with Carrot and Radish

Explore the art of salads with this visually appealing dish:

• 2 large cucumbers
• 2 medium carrots, peeled
• 4 radishes
• ¹⁄₄ cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
• Chives or cilantro for garnish

Steps to create:

1. Use a vegetable peeler to make ribbons out of the cucumbers, carrots, and radishes.
2. In a small bowl, combine vinegar, honey, and oil to make the dressing.
3. Toss the vegetable ribbons in the dressing and let it sit for 5 minutes.
4. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped herbs.

In these refreshing cucumber salad recipes, the humble cucumber takes center stage, showcasing its versatility through various flavors and preparations. From classic to exotic, each recipe provides a unique twist on how to enjoy this crisp, hydrating vegetable. Whether you're looking to add a side to your meal or create a light lunch, these salads offer a burst of freshness and flavor that's sure to satisfy.

Can these cucumber salads be prepared in advance?

+

Yes, these salads can be prepared a few hours in advance. However, for optimal texture, add any avocado or fresh herbs just before serving to prevent discoloration or wilting.

Are these cucumber salads suitable for a vegan diet?

+

Most of these salads are vegan or can be easily adapted. Just replace the feta cheese with vegan cheese or omit it entirely, and ensure the honey used in some recipes is substituted with agave or maple syrup.

How long will these cucumber salads last in the refrigerator?

+

Salads with dressings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that cucumbers can release water over time, which might make the salad less crunchy.