Refreshingly Delicious Simple Cucumber Salad in 5 Easy Steps

Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy delicious salads like this refreshing cucumber salad. This recipe is so easy to follow that you'll be able to make it in just 5 simple steps!

I recommend serving this salad as a side dish at your next summer barbecue, or bringing it with you on a picnic.

Refreshingly Delicious Simple Cucumber Salad in 5 Easy Steps

This refreshing cucumber salad is perfect for pairing with any summer meal.

Its light and crunchy texture makes it the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats like steak or chicken, as well as fish dishes like salmon or tuna. It's also great for adding a healthy burst of flavor to sandwiches and burgers.

And if you're looking for something vegetarian-friendly, this salad pairs nicely with grilled vegetables or a veggie burger.

For an extra special touch, top your cucumber salad with some feta cheese crumbles!

What You Need To Make an Easy Cucumber Salad

For the ranch dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¾ cup buttermilk or regular milk
• ¼ cup sour cream (greek yogurt works great as well)
• 2 teaspoon dry chives
• ½ teaspoon dry dill
• ½ teaspoon dry parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 fresh minced garlic clove)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

For the salad:

• 3 tablespoon bacon chips
• 1 cucumber
• 2 small tomatoes
• Pinch of salt (optional, if needed)

How to Make a Simple Cucumber Salad

First prepare the dressing.

Add all the ingredients for the dressing in a big bowl and mix everything together.

When everything is well blended, place the dressing in the fridge and leave it to stay for at least 2 hours before you use it.

Make the salad.

Meanwhile prepare the salad.

Cut the bacon into small cubes and fry it for a few minutes on a non-stick pan until you get chips.

Cut the tomatoes into small cubes and the cucumber into circles.

Place all the ingredients for the salad in a big bowl and add a few tablespoons of the dressing.

Mix everything and the salad is ready.

Note: you can store the rest of the dressing in the fridge and use it in the next few days.

Tips to Make Cucumber Salad

• Start by washing and slicing the cucumbers—aim for thin slices of equal size.
• Add some diced onion to your salad mix with the cucumber slices; this will give it a punchier flavor!
• For an extra zing, add some freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice to your dressing.
• To give your salad more crunchy texture, try adding in sliced almonds or sunflower seeds during preparation time!
• Before serving, season the cucumber salad with salt and pepper to taste—just make sure not to overdo it!
• If you want a creamier side dish, top off the salad with some crumbled feta cheese or Greek yogurt-based dressing just before serving time!
• For added flavor (and color!), sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top of the finished cucumber salad before plating up for dinner guests!
• To store leftovers properly, put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days maximum — any longer than that will cause them to lose their crispness and flavor profile completely!

FAQs About Cucumber Salad

How long does cucumber salad last in the refrigerator?

Cucumber salad should be stored in an airtight container and can last up to three days in the refrigerator. Any longer than that will cause it to lose its crispness and flavor profile.

Can I use different types of cucumbers for this salad recipe?

Yes! You can use any type of cucumber for this salad; we recommend using English or Persian cucumbers for the best results.

Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, we recommend adding the dressing and topping ingredients just before serving to ensure optimal flavor and texture!

How can I make this cucumber salad vegan?

To make this cucumber salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and switch out the Greek yogurt-based dressing for a vegan-friendly alternative like olive oil or avocado. You can also substitute sunflower seeds for the almonds to make it nut-free. Enjoy!

Is this simple cucumber salad gluten-free?

Yes, this cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free! Simply omit the almonds if you're concerned about cross-contamination. Enjoy!

What other ingredients can I add to make my cucumber salad more flavorful?

There are lots of tasty ingredients that you can add to your cucumber salad to make it more flavorful! Try adding diced red onion, freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice, chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced almonds.

📋 Recipe