Best 2 Cooler Than A Cucumber Salad Recipes

In the realm of refreshing summer salads, few dishes can rival the crisp and cooling delight of a cucumber salad. This versatile side dish, often served at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, offers a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. With its base of crisp cucumbers, a cucumber salad can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece with the addition of various herbs, spices, and dressings. From the classic vinegar-based dressing to creamy yogurt-based versions and tangy Asian-inspired variations, the possibilities are endless. This article presents a collection of cucumber salad recipes that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Dive into the refreshing world of cucumber salads and discover the perfect accompaniment to your next meal.

**Variations:**

- **Classic Cucumber Salad:** This recipe captures the essence of a traditional cucumber salad, featuring cucumbers, red onion, and a tangy vinegar-based dressing.

- **Creamy Cucumber Salad:** For a creamy twist, this recipe incorporates Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and dill, resulting in a rich and flavorful salad.

- **Asian Cucumber Salad:** Inspired by Asian flavors, this recipe combines cucumbers, carrots, red onion, and a dressing made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

- **Spicy Cucumber Salad:** For those who enjoy a touch of heat, this recipe adds a kick of spice with the inclusion of jalapeños and a spicy vinaigrette.

- **Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint:** This Mediterranean-inspired salad combines cucumbers, feta cheese, and fresh mint, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish.

- **Cucumber Salad with Avocado and Lime:** This tropical-inspired salad features cucumbers, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing side dish.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

COOL-AS-A-CUCUMBER SALAD

Cool-As-A-Cucumber Salad image

The lightly sweet blend of ingredients adds a refreshing touch to sliced cukes right out of the garden.-Joleen Jackson, Zumbrota, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 5m

Yield 4-6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup half-and-half cream
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon dill weed
3 medium cucumbers, sliced

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Add cucumbers; toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 203 calories, Fat 16g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 12mg cholesterol, Sodium 106mg sodium, Carbohydrate 13g carbohydrate (11g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 2g protein.

THE CRUNCHIEST VEGETABLE SALAD

The Crunchiest Vegetable Salad image

A bowl of ice water stops the blanched vegetables from cooking and ensures they stay tender-crisp. The salt in the ice water seasons the veggies, all the while chilling them even further.

Provided by Chris Morocco

Yield Serves 4

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

For the vegetables:
1/2 English hothouse cucumber, very thinly sliced
4 small radishes, trimmed, very thinly sliced
2 scallions, very thinly sliced
1 pound mixed snap beans (such as green, wax, and/or Romano)
Kosher salt
4 ounces sugar snap peas
For the sesame-lime dressing and assembly:
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
1/4 teaspoon sugar
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Steps:

Prepare the vegetables:
Place cucumber, radishes, and scallions in a colander set inside a bowl of ice water. Press down on vegetables to submerge. Let soak, stirring occasionally, until very firm and crunchy, at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour. Drain and pat dry.
Meanwhile, cook beans in a large pot of boiling generously salted water just until their color intensifies and they are barely softened, about 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer to a large bowl of salted ice water (use about 1 Tbsp. salt for every 2 quarts water).
Return water in pot to a boil and repeat cooking process with sugar snap peas; add to bowl of ice water with beans. Let vegetables cool; drain and pat dry. Trim beans and remove strings from sugar snap peas. Slice into large pieces on a steep diagonal.
Make the dressing and assemble:
Whisk lime juice, oil, soy sauce, sesame seeds, and sugar in a large bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper. Add beans and peas and toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add cucumber, radishes, and scallions and toss to combine. Transfer to a platter.
Do Ahead
Beans and peas can be blanched 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Dressing can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Tips:

Choose the freshest cucumbers available, with deep green skin and firm flesh.
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the cucumbers thinly and evenly.
Salting the cucumbers before adding the other ingredients helps to draw out excess moisture and prevent them from becoming too watery.
Use a variety of herbs and spices to flavor the salad, such as dill, mint, parsley, chives, garlic, and black pepper.
Add a touch of sweetness with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
For a tangy flavor, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.
For a creamy texture, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing side dish or snack.

Conclusion:

Cucumber salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavors to create your own unique cucumber salad recipe.