• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • START HERE
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
Prepare + Nourish logo
  • Recipes
  • Shop
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Shop
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • First Time? Start Here
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Salads » Easy and Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe with Garlic

    Easy and Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe with Garlic

    by: Anya·posted: Aug 10, 2015·updated: Aug 22, 2023·Leave a CommentThis post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    cucumber salad in white bowl with text overlay that says: Cucumber Dill Salad with Garlic.

    This easy and fresh cucumber dill salad recipe with garlic is the perfect solution for easy side dish on a busy weeknight or to feed a crowd on a weekend. Made with crispy cucumbers, aromatic dill, and savory garlic, this fresh and crispy salad pairs perfectly with everything. Learn how to make cucumber salad in 15 minutes, using only 3 main ingredients.

    cucumber dill salad with fresh sprig of dill on the right side.

    This is the ultimate easy recipe to whip up on a hot summer day. With lots of cucumbers and plenty of fresh dill, this simple yet vibrant dish is the perfect way to enjoy the season's harvest.

    Cucumber dill salad is a great way to use up crunchy cucumbers during the warm weather months. They are refreshing, cooling, and incredibly hydrating. Make the most of this summertime staple.

    With simple flavors and just a handful of ingredients, you will have a perfect salad that's great for a busy weeknight or fancy dinner on the weekend.

    Jump to:
    • Why you'll love Cucumber Dill Salad
    • Ingredients for Cucumber Salad
    • Substitutions and Variations
    • Make it Nutrient Dense
    • How to Make a Cucumber Salad
    • Helpful Tips for Cucumber Dill Salad
    • Tools & Links to Make Cucumber Salad
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Storage Instructions
    • FAQs
    • Printable Recipe

    Why you'll love Cucumber Dill Salad

    Easy to make - Only 3 seasonal ingredients, this salad comes together quickly - 15 minutes to be exact.

    Refreshing and healthy - With no salad dressing, this cucumber salad maintains it's crisp and refreshing texture and holds up well for days. Plus, it's naturally Paleo, Whole30, and GAPS.

    Versatile - Goes with anything and is great for quick weeknight dinners or large BBQ parties on the weekend. Similarly, you can add more ingredients to make it uniquely yours.

    Picky eaters - Kids love cucumbers and this is a delicious way to keep them hydrated and energized.

    💭Fun Fact: Cucumbers belong to the same family as watermelons and pumpkins - known as the Cucurbitaceae family. 

    Ingredients for Cucumber Salad

    Learn how to make this easy cucumber salad with just a handful of simple ingredients and 15 minutes.

    ingredients for cucumber dill salad with cucumbers, dill, and garlic.
    • Cucumbers: This seasonal vegetable provides a delicious and crunchy base. It's also what makes this salad hydrating and refreshing. Opt for Persian cucumbers or English cucumbers for their thinner skin and minimal seeds.
    • Fresh baby dill: Brings a delightful herbal aroma with a slightly tangy taste. Chop the dill finely to prevent overwhelming bites of this herb. Be sure to check out my guide on how to store fresh dill and how to chop dill for all the tips and tricks to maximize this flavorful herb and have it ready for you when you need it most! You can use dried dill in a pinch but fresh is always best.
    • Garlic cloves: Part of what makes this salad refreshing and delicious is the freshly minced garlic. I don't recommend using garlic powder if you want to achieve the same depth of flavor.
    • Sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients, creating a perfectly seasoned and juicy salad.
    • Extra virgin olive oil: This is totally optional because I love the refreshing salad without the fat, but a good olive oil will help the aromatics stick to the cucumbers better.

    See the printable recipe card for exact quantities.

    Substitutions and Variations

    • Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad - make a creamy dressing with plain yogurt or sour cream and a few tablespoons of acid like white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or red wine vinegar. Toss and enjoy a cucumber salad with a different flavor profile.
    • Use sliced cucumbers - Give this fresh cucumber salad a makeover simply by cutting the crisp cucumbers into different shapes and sizes. Follow this post on how to cut, slice, or dice a cucumber.
    • Additional ingredients - Consider adding red onion, diced avocado, or a touch of black pepper to add some heat to this simple salad. You can also add other herbs like cilantro, basil, or fresh parsley substitute.
    closeup of cut up cucumbers with dill and garlic.

    Make it Nutrient Dense

    Staying true to the heart of what Prepare and Nourish is all about, there are ways to ensure you get the maximum nutrition in this cucumber dill recipe. Even though it's an incredibly simple recipe, you can take purposeful steps to turn this into a nutrient-dense meal.

    Use fresh garden cucumbers. Our cucumber plants are still in full swing and those make the best cucumber salad recipe. They are at their peak freshness and nutrition and this salad is the best way to use up your extra cucumbers.

    Toss in a healthy fat. This salad is a cross between fresh Asian cucumber salad recipe and lacto-fermented pickles and I love the freshness of it. However, it's best to consume plants with healthy fat like extra virgin olive oil for easier nutrient assimilation and absorption.

    How to Make a Cucumber Salad

    The complete printable recipe for this refreshing cucumber salad is in the recipe card below for convenience. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions for the most perfect side dish.

    The dill cucumber salad recipe is straightforward: cut, give it a good stir, and enjoy!

    cut cucumbers lengthwise on a wooden cutting board.

    Step 1. Cut

    Remove the ends of the cucumbers and cut them lengthwise, then cut them lengthwise again, making long quarters. Line them up and cut crosswise into 1 ½" - 2" pieces.

    cucumbers with dill and garlic and salt in white bowl.

    Step 2. Season

    To a medium bowl, add cut cucumbers, minced garlic, chopped dill, and sea salt. Toss to combine. If helpful, mix the dill, garlic, and salt separately to distribute over the cucumbers evenly.

    💭Pro tip: If you find that the aromatics are not sticking to the cucumbers, you can use a little bit of olive oil to help it adhere better. 

    Helpful Tips for Cucumber Dill Salad

    Enjoy immediately - If you love a good crisp cucumber salad, serve this immediately after tossing since the cucumbers will release moisture over time.

    Give time for flavors to meld - This cucumber salad also ages well. Letting the salad marinate for about 20 minutes allows the salt to draw out moisture from the cucumbers and helps the garlic flavor penetrate more efficiently.

    Double or triple the recipe - Easily scale up to feed a larger group. Just adjust the quantities accordingly.

    Serve chilled - No matter if you serve it immediately or after some marinating time, it's best to serve this cucumber salad chilled. The coolness enhances the refreshing nature of the cucumbers and dill.

    💭Meal Prep Suggestion: Make this cucumber salad on the weekend for an easy side dish with a slight fermenting kick throughout the week. 
    Cucumbers cut up into bite size pieces in a white bowl.

    Tools & Links to Make Cucumber Salad

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this cucumber recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store, but having a link helps you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl,
    • Ingredients: unrefined sea salt, olive oil,

    Serving Suggestions

    This cucumber dill salad is so versatile and goes with any dish. Because it's so simple, I prefer to pair it with a hearty casserole like chicken and potato bake or tuna casserole recipe without soup.

    But it also goes well with individual main dishes like salt and pepper wings, pork tenderloin air fryer, and fish en papillote. Add a delicious ancient grain like buckwheat or millet Instant Pot to make it a complete meal.

    Cucumber Dill Salad pairing suggestions
    • cabbage rolls in a casserole dish
      Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
      Cook Time2 Hours 30 Minutes
    • Cabbage and Chicken casserole in a baking dish
      Chicken Cabbage Casserole
      Cook Time45 Minutes
    • Sausage and peppers on a baking sheet, with two white plates and utensils on the side.
      Oven-Baked Sausage and Peppers
      Cook Time40 Minutes
    • A slice of pizza on a white plate, grated cheese in a clear bowl, and a crustless pizza in a pan on the side.
      Easy Crustless Skillet Pizza
      Cook Time50 Minutes

    Storage Instructions

    How long does cucumber dill last in the refrigerator?

    To store: Transfer leftover cucumber salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also keep cut and prepped cucumbers untossed with the garlic and dill for up to a week. A creamy salad should be consumed within 2 days but if you make this recipe as written, it should be good much longer.

    Storage containers: These glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers.

    To freeze: Cucumbers do not freeze well because they will release excess water upon thawing, completely changing the texture and flavor of this salad.

    cucumber dill salad in a white bowl with fork to the side.

    FAQs

    What are the best kind of cucumbers for cucumber dill salad?

    It's best to use fresh cucumbers with a thin skin and minimal seeds. Persian and English cucumbers are great seedless cucumbers that will work in this recipe. For all other cucumbers, consider peeling them and removing the seeds to maintain the same texture.

    Can I make this salad ahead of time?

    Yes! You can prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best flavor. To extend the shelf life even longer, consider keeping the minced garlic, chopped dill, and salt separately until ready to toss and serve. Cut and prepped cucumbers and aromatics can be stored in separate containers for up to 7 days.

    Should you peel cucumbers for a salad?

    This is a matter of personal preference and very much depends on the type of cucumber. Regular cucumbers from your local grocery store may have thicker skins that can be tough and bitter, so it's best to peel those. But thin skinned cucumbers like English hothouse cucumber are okay unpeeled.

    Looking for more cucumber salad recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • Tomato wedges with cucumber slices and thinly sliced white onion
      Cucumber Tomato and Onion Salad
    • Shredded cabbage with cucumbers in a white bowl.
      Cabbage Cucumber Salad
    • Greek Tomato & Cucumber Salad (Low Carb, Primal, GAPS) -This Greek Tomato and Cucumber Salad with or without feta cheese has all the robust Mediterranean flavors. With a simple 4-ingredient salad dressing, this salad can be made in 15 minutes. #healthysalad #greeksalad
      Greek Tomato and Cucumber Salad (Primal, Low Carb, GAPS) +VIDEO
    • cucumber salad in white bowl with forks to the side.
      Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    garlic cucumber dill salad in a white bowl.

    Cucumber Garlic Dill Salad

    Anya @ Prepare & Nourish
    This easy and fresh cucumber dill salad recipe with garlic is the perfect solution for easy side dish on a busy weeknight or to feed a crowd on a weekend. Made with crispy cucumbers, aromatic dill, and savory garlic, this salad pairs perfectly with everything.
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 15 minutes mins
    Course Salad
    Cuisine American, European, Slavic
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 37 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 ½ pounds cucumbers
    • 3 garlic cloves
    • 2 tablespoons fresh dill
    • 2 teaspoons sea salt
    • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    • Cut: Remove the ends of the cucumbers and cut them lengthwise, then cut them lengthwise again, making long quarters.  Line them up and cut crosswise into 1 ½" - 2" pieces.  
    • Season: Add minced garlic, chopped dill, and sea salt.
    • Mix: Toss to combine and drizzle with olive oil if using. 

    Notes

    Storage: Transfer leftover cucumber salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also keep cut and prepped cucumbers untossed with the garlic and dill for up to a week. A creamy salad should be consumed within 2 days but if you make this recipe as written, it should be good much longer. 
    Helpful tips: 
    • Enjoy immediately - If you love a good crisp cucumber salad, serve this immediately after tossing since the cucumbers will release moisture over time. 
    • Give time for flavors to meld - This cucumber salad also ages well. Letting the salad marinate for about 20 minutes allows the salt to draw out moisture from the cucumbers and helps the garlic flavor penetrate more efficiently. 
    • Double or triple the recipe - Easily scale up to feed a larger group. Just adjust the quantities accordingly. 
    • Serve chilled - No matter if you serve it immediately or after some marinating time, it's best to serve this cucumber salad chilled. The coolness enhances the refreshing nature of the cucumbers and dill. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 778mg | Potassium: 161mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 92IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.3mg
    Nutrition Information
    The information shown is an estimate provided for your convenience by an online calculator. It should not be considered as a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our complete Nutritional Information Disclaimer.
    Keyword cucumber and dill salad, cucumber dill salad, how to make a cucumber salad
    ©Prepare and Nourish • Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is encouraged and appreciated but please do NOT screenshot or copy/paste complete recipes to websites or social media.
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram. Mention @prepareandnourish and be sure to tag #prepareandnourish!

    More Salads

    • Chicken Caesar pasta salad on a white plate, topped with cheese and served with a fork beside it.
      Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
    • Romaine salad in a white bowl with a fork in it.
      Lemon Parmesan Romaine Salad
    • A fresh green salad on a white plate with tomatoes, onions, olives, and croutons, plus two gold forks beside it.
      Classic House Salad
    • A gray bowl filled with tuna potato salad, with a spoon inside.
      Tuna and Potato Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing
    • Facebook
    • Email

    About Anya

    Sharing wholesome recipes using seasonal ingredients and simplified methods since 2014. My hope is you'll feel right at home in this online kitchen, where you'll find real food recipes for real families.

    Reader Interactions

    5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Anya at a farm

    Hello and welcome

    I'm Anya and it is my joy to share wholesome recipes using seasonal ingredients and simplified methods. My hope is you'll feel right at home in this online kitchen, where you'll find real food recipes for real families.

    More about me →

    Eating Nose-to-Tail? Try these

    collage of delicious recipes using organ meats.

    Seasonal Summer Favorites

    • fermented pickles in a weck jar with a red hot pepper.
      Easy Lacto-Fermented Dill Pickles Recipe
    • Sheet pan nachos with ground pork and vegetables on a tray.
      Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos Without Beans
    • Ahi tuna poke in a white bowl, with mayonnaise, chopsticks on the side, and green onion leeks in a beige bowl.
      Simple Ahi Tuna Poke Recipe
    • starbucks pink drink in plastic cups with fresh strawberries on the side.
      Starbucks Pink Drink Recipe (Healthy!)
    • Ground beef with broccoli and rice on a plate, with extra ground beef, broccoli in a pan, and spices on the side.
      Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe
    • two bowls filled with cottage cheese and fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries and topped with honey; spoons in the bowls.
      Easy Cottage Cheese with Fruit Bowl Recipe

    Trending Now

    • mushrooms and chicken gravy with fresh thyme sprigs garnished on top.
      Easy Creamy Chicken Liver Recipe
    • stack of cassava flour crepes on a plate for frozen blackberries.
      Easy Gluten-Free French Crêpes Recipe
    • roasted cabbage with parsley garnish sprinkled on top.
      Simple Oven Roasted Buttered Cabbage Recipe
    • Caesar salad dressing in a weck jar
      Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
    • Pickled red onions in a white bowl and in a clear jar beside it.
      Quick Pickled Red Onions (No Cook!)
    • Chia seed puddings in clear cups, served on a white plate with a strawberry and spoon on the side.
      Protein Chia Seed Pudding

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Never miss a new post!

    ... Subscribe

    About

    About Me

    Privacy Policy

    Contact

    Shop

    Recipes

    Recipe Index

    Dinner Recipes

    Fermentation Recipes

    Healthy Basics

    Connect

    Instagram

    Facebook

    Pinterest

    Youtube

    Copyright © 2025 Prepare + Nourish

    • Pinterest
    • Facebook

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    Let us know what you thought of this recipe:

    This worked exactly as written, thanks!
    My family loved this!
    Thank you for sharing this recipe.
    This recipe is a winner! Will make again.

    Or share in your own words:

    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.