Fresh Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad

This delightful salad is a refreshing treat, perfect for warm days or as a tangy side dish. The crunch of crisp cucumbers paired with the mild zest of sweet onions creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Fresh dill adds an aromatic herby note, enhancing the overall taste. The salad is lightly seasoned with salt and sugar, balanced perfectly with a splash of vinegar and a drizzle of rapeseed oil. It's a simple preparation, but the secret lies in letting the flavors meld together over a few hours. Unlike traditional onion salads, this one is gentler on the palate with its use of sweet onions, making it a family favorite. Great for picnics, it can be served on its own or as a side with grilled meats or sandwiches. The dish is nutritious, low in calories, and easy to make even for the novice cook.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 800 g peeled cucumbers
• 200 g peeled sweet onions
• 50 g dill

Spices and Sauces:

• 0.5 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp 9% vinegar
• 4 tbsp rapeseed oil

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes (including prep and resting time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling the cucumbers.
2. Slice the peeled cucumbers into thin rounds; using a vegetable slicer can expedite the process, but a sharp knife works just as well.
3. Next, peel the sweet onions, ensuring all outer skins are removed.
4. Slice the peeled onions into thin strips or rings, depending on your preference.
5. Chop the dill finely. Dill's fresh aroma will enhance the salad's flavors beautifully.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber slices, sweet onion strips, and chopped dill.
7. Sprinkle salt and sugar over the vegetables and mix gently but thoroughly. This will help to draw out natural juices, enhancing the dressing’s flavor.
8. Add the vinegar to the salad, stirring to make sure it's evenly distributed, imparting a subtle tanginess.
9. Drizzle rapeseed oil over the mixture, stirring again to ensure the flavors are balanced and cohesive.
10. Allow the salad mixture to rest for 2 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This time lets the flavors meld and develop depth.
11. After resting, transfer the salad into sterilized jars if you wish to store it. A one-liter jar is ideal for this quantity.
12. Heat the filled jars at 85-90°C for 20 minutes. This helps in preserving the salad if you plan to enjoy it later.
13. Seal the jars with metal lids immediately after heating.
14. Carefully place the hot jars upside down and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to create a vacuum seal.
15. Once cooled, invert the jars for storage.
16. Serve chilled and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors with a variety of dishes.
17. The salad can stay refrigerated for several days, maintaining its crunchy texture.
18. Enjoy as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite grilled protein.
19. For extra zest, add a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.
20. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

• Substitution: If you can't find sweet onions, try using shallots for a milder taste.
• For added color, mix in thinly sliced red bell peppers.
• Keep the salad chilled for maximum freshness and crispiness.

Variations

• Herb Variation: Substitute dill with fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Dietary Needs: For a vegan-friendly option, ensure all ingredients are plant-based and organic.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• Pair with crusty bread and a hearty soup for a complete meal.
• Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra citrusy twist.

Best Places

• The Salad Room - An urban oasis offering a variety of fresh salads in a cozy setting. Location: 123 Garden St, New York, USA.
• Green Delight - Famous for its creative takes on traditional salads with organic ingredients. Location: 45 Vegan Lane, London, UK.
• Herb & Spice - A chic spot known for its unique herb-infused salads. Location: 89 Fresh Ave, Sydney, Australia.
• Cucumber & Co - Renowned for their cucumber-based dishes, giving a new twist to salads. Location: 7 Leafy Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
• Sweet Onion Bistro - Offers a delightful array of onion-centric salads and dishes. Location: 300 Flavor Rd, Paris, France.
• Dill Haven - Specializes in using fresh dill to create aromatic dishes. Location: 8 Aroma St, Berlin, Germany.
• Zesty Greens - Known for their tangy salad dressings that elevate each dish. Location: 99 Citrus Path, Rome, Italy.
• Fresh Bites - Sustainability-focused café serving organic and locally sourced food. Location: 25 Eco Str, Stockholm, Sweden.
• Crafted Salads - Enhancing classic recipes with modern twists and artisan ingredients. Location: 40 Creative Ct, San Francisco, USA.
• Flavors of Nature - Celebrating seasonal produce in every dish, offering a rotating menu. Location: 55 Season St, Vancouver, Canada.