Description
Garlic Dill Cucumbers are a refreshing and tangy side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, and vinegar. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light snack or as a complement to grilled dishes, offering a crisp texture and zesty taste in just 20 minutes total.
Ingredients
Scale
Cucumbers
- 3-4 small cucumbers (Persian or English)
Marinade
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp sugar (optional)
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumbers: Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Slice them into thin rounds or spears, depending on your preference for presentation and texture.
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar until well combined. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base for the cucumbers.
- Add garlic and dill: Stir in the minced garlic and freshly chopped dill into the marinade, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
- Coat the cucumbers: Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss them thoroughly in the marinade to ensure every slice is coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Marinate for flavor: Let the cucumbers sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For a more intense taste, refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours.
- Serve or chill: Garnish with sliced red onion, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy immediately or keep chilled in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor profile further.
Notes
- Use Persian or English cucumbers for the best texture and fewer seeds.
- Adjust the vinegar amount to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- Optional sugar balances the acidity but can be omitted for a sugar-free version.
- Marinating in the fridge overnight intensifies the flavors.
- This dish is best served cold as a refreshing side salad.
