Herby Warm Cucumbers with Lemon Recipe
Introduction
This simple and refreshing dish features warm cucumber ribbons infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon. It’s a light, flavorful side that’s perfect for spring and summer meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Small handful of mint, chopped
- 2 cucumbers, cut into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler
- Small handful of dill, chopped
- Small handful of parsley, chopped
- ½ lemon, zested and juiced
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped mint and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Gently stir in the cucumber ribbons, tossing to coat them in the oil and mint. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cucumbers are just warmed through but still slightly crisp.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped dill, parsley, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
- Step 4: Transfer the warm cucumbers to a serving platter. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired and sprinkle with the lemon zest before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use fresh, firm cucumbers to maintain a nice texture after warming.
- Swap out the herbs for basil or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or enjoy cold as a refreshing salad. Avoid overheating to keep the cucumbers from becoming too soft.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular sliced cucumbers instead of ribbons?
Yes, but cucumber ribbons cook more evenly and look elegant. If using slices, keep them thin for quick warming and good texture.
Is this dish best served warm or cold?
This dish is traditionally served warm to highlight the fresh herbs and softened cucumbers, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled as a salad.
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Herby Warm Cucumbers with Lemon Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing side dish featuring tender cucumber ribbons warmed with fragrant herbs and a bright splash of lemon juice and zest, perfect for a quick, healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Herbs and Seasoning
- Small handful of mint, chopped
- Small handful of dill, chopped
- Small handful of parsley, chopped
- ½ lemon, zested and juiced
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cucumbers, cut into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler
Instructions
- Heat the oil and mint: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped mint. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally, to release the mint’s fragrance.
- Cook cucumber ribbons: Add the thinly peeled cucumber ribbons to the pan. Gently toss them with the mint and oil, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cucumbers are just warmed through but still retain their crunch.
- Combine with herbs and lemon: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir through the chopped dill, parsley, and a drizzle of the fresh lemon juice to infuse bright flavors without cooking the herbs.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the cucumbers to a serving platter, drizzle with more lemon juice if desired, and sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the top for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Use Persian or English cucumbers for thinner skin and fewer seeds, which improves texture for this dish.
- This recipe is best served immediately while warm to enjoy the fresh herb aroma.
- The gentle warming preserves the cucumber’s crispness, avoiding a soggy texture.
- Can be served as a light side dish or a refreshing salad component.
- For a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice amount gently to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: warm cucumber salad, herby cucumber ribbons, lemon cucumber side, quick cucumber dish, Mediterranean cucumber recipe
