Cucumber salad for dinner

Here’s a crisp, refreshing, and super easy Cucumber Salad that’s perfect for dinner whether as a light side, a palate cleanser, or a cooling contrast to spicy or grilled dishes.

🥒 EASY CUCUMBER SALAD FOR DINNER

🔸 Serves: 2–4

🔸 Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 10–30 minutes (optional)

✅ Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian preferred), thinly sliced

• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar

• 1 tbsp olive oil (or sesame oil for an Asian twist)

• 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, mint, or parsley (optional)

• Crushed red pepper or chili flakes (optional for a kick)

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional for crunch)

🔹 Instructions:

1. Prep Cucumbers:

   • Thinly slice cucumbers (peel if desired).

   • Place in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let sit 5–10 minutes to draw out water, then pat dry (optional but keeps salad crisp).

2. Make Dressing:

   • In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

3. Combine:

   • Toss cucumbers and onions (if using) in the dressing.

   • Add herbs and any optional toppings like sesame seeds or chili flakes.

4. Chill (Optional):

   • Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10–30 minutes for flavors to meld.

5. Serve:

   • Serve cold as a side dish to grilled meats, rice dishes, or sandwiches.

🥗 Variations:

• Add cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced radish.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of oil for a creamy version.

• Add crumbled feta or mozzarella balls for more protein.