Cucumbers With Dill
Cucumbers with dill offer a refreshing, tangy flavor with hints of sweetness and fresh dill, perfect as a light side or summer appetizer for those seeking cool, crisp bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel cucumbers or score lengthwise with fork tines.
- Cut cucumbers into very thin slices.
- Sprinkle slices lightly with salt and let stand for two hours.
- Wash off the salt and drain the cucumber slices.
- Combine water, vinegar, sugar, dill, and freshly ground black pepper to make the marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the cucumber slices.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh dill and allow the cucumbers to marinate for a longer time if possible. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar slightly. For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of mustard seeds or substituting apple cider vinegar for white vinegar. This recipe is also fantastic when served alongside Mediterranean recipes, enhancing your meal's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the marinated cucumbers as a refreshing side dish, perfect for summer barbecues or picnics. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or can be included in a light lunch alongside Tammy's Salad. For added crunch, consider serving with pita chips or alongside a spread of Herb Pesto.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making them even tastier over time. However, avoid freezing as the texture may become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy them cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumbers With Dill contains roughly 55 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other herbs instead of dill?
Absolutely! While dill is traditional, you can experiment with fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor profile. Each herb will give a unique twist to the dish while still keeping it light and refreshing. Just remember to adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
How long can I marinate the cucumbers?
You can marinate the cucumbers for a minimum of one hour, but for the best results, let them sit in the marinade for up to four hours or even overnight. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become, allowing the cucumbers to absorb all the delicious tastes.
What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe?
English cucumbers are ideal for this recipe due to their thin skin and minimal seeds, resulting in a crisp texture. However, regular cucumbers work well too, especially if you peel them. Just make sure to slice them very thinly for the best marinating effect.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).