This recipe for Garlic Dill Cucumbers is the ultimate fresh, crisp, and tangy side dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a simple yet vibrant marinade of vinegar, fresh dill, and garlic, creating a classic salad that’s bursting with bright flavor. It’s a light, refreshing, and incredibly easy way to add a zesty crunch to any meal.
This is the perfect quick-pickle style salad to make when you need a fast and easy side for a summer BBQ, potluck, or simple weeknight dinner. There’s no cooking required, and the flavors only get better as they marinate. It’s a timeless classic for a reason!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: A delicious, refreshing side dish that’s ready in about 10 minutes.
- Incredibly Fresh Flavor: The perfect balance of tangy vinegar, fresh dill, and savory garlic.
- Super Versatile: The perfect cooling side dish for grilled meats, spicy foods, or sandwiches.
- Healthy & Light: A low-calorie, low-carb, and refreshing way to enjoy your vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 medium English Cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup Rice Vinegar or White Wine Vinegar
- 1/4 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sugar or Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- Make the Marinade: In a separate small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the rice vinegar, water, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
- Combine: Pour the marinade over the cucumbers and onions. Toss gently until everything is well-coated.
- Marinate (Optional but Recommended): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the cucumbers marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Serve: Serve the cucumbers chilled, using a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Pro Tip: For the best texture, use English cucumbers as they have thin skin and minimal seeds. If you only have regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and scoop out the seeds first.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Start with one tablespoon and add more if you prefer a sweeter pickle flavor.
- Add Some Spice: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
- Different Herbs: While dill is classic, fresh parsley or chives would also be a delicious addition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How long will this salad last?
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cucumbers will soften over time but will still be flavorful.
- Can I use dried dill?
- Fresh dill is highly recommended for the best, brightest flavor. If you must use dried, use about 2 teaspoons instead of 2 tablespoons.
- Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
- It’s not necessary with English cucumbers as their skin is thin and tender. If using other varieties with thicker, waxy skin, you may prefer to peel them.
Serving Suggestions
- These garlic dill cucumbers are a fantastic, refreshing side dish for almost any meal. They are perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish, piled onto a burger or pulled pork sandwich, or served as a light side for a heavy main course like lasagna.
Garlic Dill Cucumbers
Crisp and refreshing garlic dill cucumbers are the perfect summer side dish. Packed with fresh garlic and dill flavor, they pair beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, sandwiches, or roasted potatoes.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the cucumbers, garlic, and dill.
- Combine cucumbers, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl or ziplock bag.
- Refrigerate covered for 15–30 minutes, or up to a few hours. The longer they sit, the softer they will become.
- Serve cold as a side dish.
Notes
The longer the cucumbers chill in the refrigerator, the softer they become. Serve cold for the best flavor. Works great as a picnic or BBQ side dish.
