Salads are a staple for those who enjoy fresh, crisp, and light meals, and this Spiral Cucumber Salad is no exception. With its refreshing flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at a BBQ, or even a light dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh cucumbers, this salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this salad comes together in no time.
- Versatile: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with grilled meats and other summer favorites.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, spiralized
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Spiralize the Cucumbers: Using a spiralizer, create long, thin spirals from the cucumbers. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can thinly slice the cucumbers.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the spiralized cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the cucumbers and herbs, the better the salad will taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing.
- Add Crunch: For added texture, you can mix in some chopped nuts or seeds.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 45 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0.5g
Variations
- Asian-Inspired: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil to the dressing for an Asian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Additional Veggies: Incorporate spiralized carrots, radishes, or zucchini for more variety and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Can I use different types of vinegar? Absolutely! While rice vinegar adds a mild flavor, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different taste.
Conclusion
This Spiral Cucumber Salad is not only visually appealing but also deliciously refreshing. It’s an easy recipe that brings a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a summer cookout or looking for a healthy snack, this salad is sure to impress.
For more delicious recipes, check out Salty Side Dish.