Crisp & Refreshing Cucumber Herb Salad Recipe

This Crisp & Refreshing Cucumber Herb Salad is a cool, tangy, and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for warm weather or when I need something light and vibrant to balance a rich meal. With thinly sliced cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a simple dressing, it’s a salad I can throw together in minutes and serve with just about anything.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cucumber salad because it’s fresh, simple, and full of clean flavor. The crisp cucumbers soak up the tangy dressing beautifully, and the herbs add a burst of brightness that makes each bite refreshing. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and a go-to side dish when I want something light and healthy that still delivers on taste.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• English or Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced

• Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• Fresh dill or parsley, chopped

• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• Olive oil

• Sugar or honey (optional, for balance)

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: lemon juice, garlic, or a pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions

1. I start by slicing the cucumbers and red onions thinly and placing them in a large bowl.

2. In a separate small bowl, I whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. I pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything gently to coat.

4. I stir in the chopped fresh herbs and let the salad sit for at least 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. I serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on my preference.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 and takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy side dish for any meal.

Variations

• I sometimes add cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch and color.

• Swapping dill for mint gives it a slightly sweeter, cooling twist.

• I’ve made a creamy version with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream in the dressing.

• Adding crumbled feta or olives makes it more Mediterranean-inspired.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad tends to get more flavorful as it sits, but the cucumbers may lose a bit of their crunch. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the first day.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers?

Yes, but I usually peel and deseed them to avoid bitterness and too much water.

Do I have to use sugar in the dressing?

No, it’s optional. I use it when I want to balance the acidity of the vinegar, but it’s just as good without it.

What herbs go best with cucumber salad?

Dill is my favorite, but parsley, mint, cilantro, or a mix of fresh herbs all work beautifully.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I prep it up to a day in advance. I keep the herbs and dressing separate until closer to serving to maintain freshness.

Is this salad good for picnics or BBQs?

Definitely. It’s light, refreshing, and holds up well at room temperature for short periods—perfect for outdoor meals.

Conclusion

This Crisp & Refreshing Cucumber Herb Salad is a simple, versatile recipe I reach for when I want something bright, clean, and full of fresh flavor. Whether I’m pairing it with grilled meats, tossing it into a wrap, or serving it as a light side, it always adds the perfect touch of freshness to the plate.

Crisp & Refreshing Cucumber Herb Salad Recipe

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad, Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crisp & Refreshing Cucumber Herb Salad is a light, tangy, and hydrating side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette—perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or when you need a cool, clean-flavored addition to the table.

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Ingredients

• 2 English or 4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2–3 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional Add-ins:
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Slice cucumbers (and red onion, if using) thinly and place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or garlic.

3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat.

4. Add chopped herbs and mix again.

5. Let the salad rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Notes

• For extra crunch, add sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes.
• Use a mandoline slicer for even, paper-thin cucumber slices.
• For a creamy twist, mix a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing.