Why make this recipe
Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. If you love pickles and cucumbers, this salad is the perfect way to combine those tastes in a light and healthy side dish. The tangy pickle juice adds a unique twist to the classic ranch flavor, making it a standout choice for summer barbecues, picnics, or any gathering. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires very little prep time!
How to make Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
- Pickle slices, as desired
- 240 ml sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 120 ml pickle juice
- 0.5 teaspoon fine salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, dried onion, garlic powder, dried parsley, dried dill, pickle juice, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth. You can adjust the pickle juice if you want a tangier flavor.
- Place the sliced cucumbers and any desired pickle slices into a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared Pickle Juice Ranch Dressing over the cucumber mixture. Toss gently with a spatula until everything is thoroughly coated.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors fully develop. Serve well chilled.
How to serve Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
This salad is best served cold. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or any summer meal. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. For added flair, serve it in a pretty bowl and garnish with fresh herbs or extra pickle slices on top.
How to store Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
To store leftover salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days. However, the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to make Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
- Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch and taste. Persian cucumbers are great, but you can also use English or regular garden cucumbers.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro.
- You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just combine it with cucumbers right before serving.
Variation
For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the dressing. You can also add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cucumbers?
Yes, you can use other types of cucumbers like English or garden cucumbers. Just make sure to slice them thinly for best results.
2. Is this salad healthy?
Yes, this salad is healthy! It uses fresh cucumbers and yogurt or sour cream, making it light and refreshing.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just remember to refrigerate it to let the flavors blend, and serve it cold.