Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crisp and Refreshing: The cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch, making them a refreshing accompaniment to various dishes.
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Flavorful Simplicity: With minimal ingredients—garlic, dill, salt, and pepper—the natural flavors of the cucumbers shine through, enhanced by the aromatic additions.
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Quick and Easy: Preparation takes only about 15 minutes, and the dish benefits from a brief chilling period, making it ideal for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cucumbers (preferably pickling cucumbers or any small variety), cut into spears
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Fresh garlic cloves, peeled and slightly crushed
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Fresh dill, finely chopped
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Salt
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Pepper
Note: Specific measurements are not provided, allowing you to adjust quantities based on personal taste preferences.
Directions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
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Slice the cucumbers into spears.
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Gently crush the garlic cloves with the side of a knife to release their flavor while keeping them mostly whole.
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Finely chop the fresh dill.
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Combine the Ingredients:
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In a large mixing bowl or a zip-top plastic bag, combine the cucumber spears, crushed garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
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Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Chill:
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Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes, or up to a few hours. The longer they sit, the more the flavors will meld, and the cucumbers will become slightly softer.
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Serve:
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Serve the cucumbers chilled as a side dish.
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Variations
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the garlic and dill.
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Herb Alternatives: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon to create your own unique flavor profile.
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Pickled Version: For a tangier taste, add a splash of white vinegar to the mixture before refrigerating.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?
Yes, you can use any small cucumbers. Pickling cucumbers are often preferred for their crunch and size, but regular cucumbers work well too.
How long can I store the prepared cucumbers?
It’s best to consume them within 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Are these cucumbers served warm or cold?
They are best served chilled, as refrigeration enhances their crispness and allows the flavors to meld.
Can I make these cucumbers ahead of time?
Yes, preparing them a few hours in advance allows the flavors to develop more fully.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Sliced red onions or bell peppers can add color and additional flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic Dill Cucumbers are a delightful and uncomplicated addition to any meal. Their refreshing crunch and the harmonious blend of garlic and dill make them a crowd-pleaser. With minimal preparation and the flexibility to adjust flavors to your liking, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Garlic Dill Cucumbers
These Garlic Dill Cucumbers are a simple, refreshing side dish that combines crisp cucumbers with the aromatic flavors of garlic and dill. Quick to prepare, this dish is perfect for summer meals, serving as a delightful complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or roasted potatoes. Its easy preparation and customizable flavors make it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cucumbers (preferably pickling cucumbers or any small variety), cut into spears
Fresh garlic cloves, peeled and slightly crushed
Fresh dill, finely chopped
Salt
Pepper
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
-
Slice the cucumbers into spears.
-
Gently crush the garlic cloves with the side of a knife to release their flavor while keeping them mostly whole.
-
Finely chop the fresh dill.
-
-
Combine the Ingredients:
-
In a large mixing bowl or zip-top plastic bag, combine the cucumber spears, crushed garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
-
Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
-
-
Chill:
-
Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes, or up to a few hours. The longer they sit, the more the flavors will meld, and the cucumbers will become slightly softer.
-
-
Serve:
-
Serve the cucumbers chilled as a refreshing side dish.
-
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the garlic and dill.
Herb Alternatives: Experiment with parsley, tarragon, or other fresh herbs for a unique flavor profile.
Pickled Version: Add a splash of white vinegar to the mixture before refrigerating for a tangier taste.