When the scorching summer heat is in full swing, it’s time to turn to light and refreshing dishes that will cool you down and satiate your taste buds. One such delightful recipe is the Creamy Italian Cucumber Salad.
Bursting with flavors, this salad brings together the crispness of cucumbers, the creaminess of dressing, and the aromatic blend of Italian herbs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a healthy and satisfying side dish, this salad is sure to please. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of this Italian-inspired creation!
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- Italian Style Meatloaf
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Ingredients:
- For the salad:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- For the dressing:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the cucumbers: Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife for this task. Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release excess moisture. This step ensures that the salad remains crisp and not watery.
Make the dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and well incorporated.
Combine the ingredients: After the cucumbers have released their moisture, gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and parsley leaves.
Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber mixture in the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the salad, ensuring that every ingredient is coated with the creamy dressing.
Chill and marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the cucumbers to absorb the creamy goodness of the dressing. For even more intense flavors, you can refrigerate the salad overnight.
Serve and enjoy: Just before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Transfer the creamy Italian cucumber salad to a serving dish and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves. This salad pairs well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or can be enjoyed as a light and refreshing meal on its own.
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The Creamy Italian Cucumber Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your plate. With its cool and refreshing taste, this salad is a perfect addition to your summer menu.
So, the next time you crave a dish that’s light, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flair, try this recipe and treat your taste buds to a creamy, tangy, and herb-infused culinary experience!
