Refreshing Cucumber Mint Salad – Healthy Summer Recipe

Escape the summer heat with this invigorating cucumber mint salad. Perfect as a light, standalone meal or as a zesty side dish for your next outdoor gathering, this salad combines the coolness of cucumbers with the bright flavor of fresh mint.

Our secret to perfecting this dish? We tame the sharpness of raw onions by giving them a quick soak in ice water. And by salting and draining the cucumbers, we ensure they maintain their satisfying crunch while preventing the dressing from becoming watery. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

• 2 English (hothouse) cucumbers
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped red onions
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

Directions

1. Start by preparing the cucumbers. Slice them in half lengthwise and use a teaspoon to gently scrape out the seeds. Then, cut the cucumbers into thin, delicate slices. In a colander, toss the cucumber slices with salt and let them drain in the sink for at least 30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring your salad stays crisp. After draining, give the colander a few taps on the base of the sink to release any lingering water. For the finishing touch, spread a clean dish towel on your counter and transfer the cucumber slices onto it. Use the edges of the towel to blot the cucumbers dry, removing any remaining moisture.
2. While the cucumbers are draining, let’s tame those red onions. Place them in a small bowl of ice water for a minimum of 10 minutes. This simple step mellows out their sharp bite, allowing them to blend harmoniously with the other ingredients. After soaking, drain the onions using a fine mesh strainer.
3. Now, it’s time to bring all the flavors together. In a medium bowl, combine your crisp cucumbers, mellowed onions, white wine vinegar, olive oil, vegetable oil, sugar, pepper, and fresh mint. Give it a good mix, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Every palate is different, so feel free to tweak it to your liking. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a more complex and satisfying salad.
4. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a final toss and present it cold. The contrast between the cool, crisp cucumbers and the aromatic mint will be a refreshing explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch on a scorching summer day or serving it alongside grilled meats at a barbecue, this Cucumber and Mint Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Cucumber and Mint Salad

To elevate your salad game, consider these pro tips:

• For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese just before serving.
• Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar, to create subtle variations in taste.
• If you’re a garlic lover, a finely minced clove can add a delightful punch to the dressing.
• For a more substantial meal, toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to boost the protein content.

Remember, the key to this salad’s success lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Use the freshest cucumbers and mint you can find for the best flavor and aroma. Happy cooking, and enjoy your refreshing culinary creation!

Nutritional Facts