Refresh your palate with this delightfully crisp and flavorful Honey-Mayo Cucumber Salad. Combining the fresh tastes of cucumbers, carrots, and tomatoes with a creamy honey-mayonnaise dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. Topped with hard-boiled eggs for added protein, it’s an excellent choice for a light lunch or as a side dish to complement any meal. Easy to prepare and bursting with freshness, this salad is a must-try for salad lovers.
Ingredients
- 3 baby cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the baby cucumbers and slice them thinly.
- Peel and dice the carrot into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the tomato, being careful to remove any excess liquid to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Thinly slice the red onion for a milder flavor in the salad.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mayonnaise, and honey until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced carrots, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Add Eggs:
- Fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs carefully to keep them from mashing.
- Chill:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to mix the flavors again. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish to your favorite meals.
Tips for Making Honey-Mayo Cucumber Salad
- Choosing Cucumbers: Opt for firm, fresh baby cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. If baby cucumbers are not available, you can substitute with English cucumbers. Make sure to slice them thinly for a delicate bite.
- Preventing a Soggy Salad: To keep the salad crisp, thoroughly drain the tomatoes and cucumbers of any excess liquid before adding them to the salad. This step helps maintain the salad’s texture and prevents diluting the flavors of the dressing.
- Customizing the Dressing: If you prefer a lighter dressing, consider substituting Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise. This swap can reduce the overall calorie count while adding a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Enhancing Flavor: For an extra touch of zest, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of lemon zest to the dressing. This can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing note to the salad.
- Adding Crunch: To introduce an additional element of crunch and nuttiness, sprinkle some toasted almond slices or sunflower seeds over the salad just before serving.
- Herb Variations: While the recipe calls for thyme, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as dill or basil for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can make a significant impact on the overall taste of the salad.
- Make Ahead: If preparing this salad for a gathering, you can mix the vegetables and keep the dressing separate until right before serving. This approach keeps everything fresh and crisp.
- Serving Cold: Ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving, as it enhances the refreshing qualities of the dish. It’s an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time and pull out of the fridge just before mealtime.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: This cucumber salad is excellent with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a summer barbecue spread.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the refreshing qualities of the salad.
Nutritional Highlights
- Low Calorie: Cucumber is low in calories but high in water content, making this salad a hydrating and diet-friendly option.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots and tomatoes provide beta-carotene and lycopene, respectively, both of which are powerful antioxidants.
- Protein: Hard-boiled eggs add a good source of high-quality protein, making this salad more filling and nutritious.
Enjoy your delicious Honey-Mayo Cucumber Salad, a simple yet delightful dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty, perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying option.
