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American Cucumber Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

American Cucumber Salad

American Cucumber Salad is a staple of summer picnics and backyard barbecues, offering a refreshing counterpoint to heartier fare. This version reflects the no-fuss approach of American home cooks, who rely on instinct rather than strict measurements. It’s a dish that resonates with memories of family gatherings and warm, lazy afternoons.

The salad delivers a cool, creamy bite with a hint of garlic and the unmistakable aroma of fresh dill. The cucumbers, crisp and hydrating, mingle effortlessly with the tangy yogurt dressing. Generous pinches of fine sea salt bring all the flavors together, resulting in a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 2cucumbers
  • 200 gyogurt
  • 1 clovegarlic
  • dill — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by washing 2 cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Peel the cucumbers using a vegetable peeler, then slice them thinly into rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl to allow for easy tossing later.
  2. Peel and finely mince 1 clove of garlic. Add the minced garlic to the bowl with the cucumbers. This will infuse the salad with a subtle garlic flavor that complements the freshness of the cucumbers.
  3. Measure out 200 g of yogurt and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers and garlic. The yogurt will act as a creamy dressing base, adding a tangy flavor and smooth texture to the salad.
  4. Finely chop a handful of fresh dill, about 2 tablespoons, and add it to the bowl. Dill provides a fragrant herbal note that pairs well with the coolness of the cucumbers and the creaminess of the yogurt.
  5. Season the salad with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small pinch, toss the salad gently, and taste. Add more salt if needed, but be mindful not to overpower the other flavors.
  6. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the salad, about 1 tablespoon, to add richness and help the flavors meld together. Gently toss the salad using two large spoons, ensuring the cucumber slices remain intact and are evenly coated with the dressing.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Serve immediately with slices of crusty bread on the side, allowing guests to enjoy the salad's refreshing and creamy flavors as part of a shared meal.
Cover of Authentic American Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic American Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic American Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the American volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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