Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A Creamy & Crunchy Delight

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction

Nothing says fresh and delicious quite like a cool, crisp cucumber salad on a warm day. This isn’t just a basic garden salad; it’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The coolness of the sliced cucumbers is complemented by the sweet crunch of carrots and the sharp bite of red onion. The real secret weapon, however, is the creamy, slightly sweet and tangy dressing that coats every ingredient, tying the entire dish together. Finished with rich, chopped boiled eggs, this salad is transformed from a simple side into a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to bring to every picnic, potluck, or backyard barbecue.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Difficulty: Easy
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Dietary Classification: Vegetarian

Equipment and Tools

Making this refreshing salad requires only a few essential kitchen tools.

• Large Mixing Bowl: A bowl with a capacity of at least 3 quarts is perfect for combining the vegetables and dressing without a mess.
• Small Bowl: For whisking the dressing ingredients.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping and slicing the vegetables.
• Vegetable Peeler: For peeling the carrot.
• Whisk or Fork: To mix the dressing until it is smooth and emulsified.
• Serving Spoon: For gently tossing the salad and serving it.

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber salad is a versatile dish that works well in a variety of settings.

• Plating Recommendations: Serve the salad in a clear glass or ceramic bowl to show off its vibrant colors. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs just before serving for a beautiful finish.
• Complementary Side Dishes: This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, as its cool, creamy nature balances the richness of the main course. It also makes a fantastic side for sandwiches or a light summer soup.
• Beverage Pairings: A tall glass of iced tea or lemonade would be a refreshing complement. If you’re pairing it with wine, a light and zesty Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé would be an excellent choice.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings)

This recipe offers a great blend of macronutrients, making it both delicious and satisfying.

• Calories: Varies depending on the amount of mayonnaise and honey used.
• Macronutrients: This salad is rich in healthy fats from the mayonnaise, which helps with satiety. The vegetables provide carbohydrates and fiber, while the boiled eggs offer a significant source of protein.
• Dietary Information: Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and low in calories. The eggs are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including choline and Vitamin D.

Storage and Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed chilled and is a great make-ahead option.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Note that the vegetables may release more water over time, so you might need to give it a quick stir before serving.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this salad. The high water content of the cucumbers and the mayonnaise-based dressing will not hold up well to freezing and thawing, resulting in a soggy, separated texture.
• Reheating: This is a cold salad and should not be reheated.

Expert Tips and Variations

• Professional Chef Tips:
  • Salt the Cucumbers: To prevent a watery salad, a great tip is to salt your sliced cucumbers. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle them with a teaspoon of salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad.
  • Boil Eggs Perfectly: To get perfectly cooked eggs that are easy to peel, place them in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then immediately turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let them sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer them to an ice bath to cool completely before peeling.
  • Taste the Dressing: Always taste the dressing before you add it to the salad. This allows you to adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and seasoning to your preference.
• Creative Recipe Variations:
  • Add Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh chopped dill or parsley would complement the flavors beautifully.
  • Swap the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like thinly sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even a handful of corn kernels for a sweet crunch.
  • Lighter Dressing: For a healthier alternative, you can substitute the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It will still be creamy but with a tangier profile.
  • Add a Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, add cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled chickpeas. For another great picnic-friendly dish with chicken, check out our Classic Chicken Macaroni Salad: The Perfect Potluck Dish.

Ingredients

This cucumber salad recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients for a delightful result.

• 3 Baby Cucumbers: These are ideal because of their thin skin and lack of large seeds.
• 1 Small Carrot: Adds sweetness, color, and a nice crunch.
• 1 Tomato: Provides a juicy, fresh flavor.
• 1/4 Small Red Onion: Adds a sharp, savory bite.
• 2 Boiled Eggs: For a rich texture and a boost of protein.
• 1 tbsp Vinegar: Provides the tang for the dressing. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works best.
• 4 tbsp Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing.
• 1 tbsp Honey: To balance the acidity of the vinegar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect cucumber salad.

1. Prep the Vegetables and Eggs: Wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the carrot and cut it into thin slices or julienne strips. Cut the baby cucumbers into thin slices or half-moons. Dice the tomato into small pieces and finely chop the red onion. Peel the boiled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, sliced carrots, diced tomato, chopped red onion, and chopped boiled eggs.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, mix together the vinegar, mayonnaise, and honey until well combined and smooth.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables and eggs are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Season and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and, optionally, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a colder, more refreshing taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)