Keto Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion: A Refreshing, Low-Carb Delight

Introduction

In the realm of low-carb and keto-friendly diets, finding a refreshing yet satisfying side dish can be both challenging and rewarding. Our Keto Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion stands out as a quintessential choice for those adhering to ketogenic principles or simply seeking a crisp, flavorful accompaniment to their meals. This recipe combines the cool, crisp texture of cucumbers with the aromatic flavors of fresh dill and the sharp bite of red onion, creating a salad that’s not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with low-carb and keto dietary guidelines.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Keto Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 medium cucumbers (approximately 12 oz or 340 grams), thinly sliced
  • 1 small red onion, finely sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (preferably full-fat for a richer flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tanginess)
  • 1 teaspoon erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener (optional, to balance flavors)

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Instructions

  1. Preparation of Cucumbers: Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers thinly. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure they are delicate yet substantial enough to hold up in the salad.
  2. Preparation of Red Onion: Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. To achieve a milder flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes. This will help to reduce the pungency and provide a more subtle bite to the salad.
  3. Combining Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onions. Toss them together gently to ensure an even distribution.
  4. Preparing the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, mix together the sour cream, apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard (if using). Whisk the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
  5. Seasoning the Salad: Add the chopped fresh dill to the cucumber and onion mixture. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything together gently until the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Adjusting Flavor: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and erythritol (if using) as needed. The erythritol can be added to balance the tanginess of the vinegar and the richness of the sour cream, depending on your taste preferences.
  7. Chilling: For best results, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
  8. Serving: Once chilled, give the salad a final gentle toss. Serve it cold as a side dish or a light, refreshing snack. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a light lunch option.

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Nutritional Information

For those monitoring their macronutrient intake, the following nutritional information is based on a serving size of 1 cup (about 200 grams) of this Keto Cucumber Salad:

  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 7 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Net Carbohydrates: 4 grams
  • Protein: 2 grams

SmartPoints Calculation

For those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program, this Keto Cucumber Salad is a low SmartPoints option. Based on the nutritional content and ingredients used, the salad is approximately:

  • SmartPoints: 2 (for a 1-cup serving)

Tips for Success

  • Selecting Cucumbers: Choose cucumbers that are firm and free from blemishes. English cucumbers are often preferred for their fewer seeds and thinner skin, but regular cucumbers will work as well.
  • Fresh Dill: Fresh dill offers the best flavor, but dried dill can be used if necessary. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried dill as a substitute.
  • Adjusting Acidity: If you prefer a less tangy flavor, you can reduce the amount of apple cider vinegar or substitute it with lemon juice for a different twist.
  • Making Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Conclusion

The Keto Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is not only a low-carb and keto-friendly dish but also a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Its combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic dill, and creamy dressing makes it a satisfying choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing side or a standalone light meal, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.