A crunchy, tangy and refreshing cucumber salad with garlic, herbs and a little heat. It’s quick to make and perfect as a light side dish or snack.

Ingredients

• 4 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1–2 tablespoons water, as needed
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, optional

Instructions

1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
2. Place them in a large bowl. If they’re particularly watery, sprinkle with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain and gently pat dry.
3. Add the minced garlic, fresh dill and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried dill, garlic powder, red pepper flakes and black pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss thoroughly until everything is coated.
6. Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving. This gives the cucumbers time to absorb the flavors.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional fresh dill before serving, if desired.

🥗 Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings:

• Calories: ~35
• Protein: ~1.5 g
• Fat: ~0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: ~8 g
• Fiber: ~1.5 g
• Net carbs: ~6.5 g
• Sugar: ~4 g

Nutrition is approximate and depends on the size of the cucumbers and ingredients used.

💡 Tips

• For extra crunch, use chilled cucumbers straight from the refrigerator.
• English or Persian cucumbers work especially well.
• Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
• For a creamier version, mix in a little plain Greek yogurt.
• Letting the salad sit for 30 minutes gives the flavors more time to develop.
• For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until serving if you want the cucumbers to remain especially crisp.

❓ Q&A

Why is it called “Bang”?

The name refers to the bold combination of garlic, acidity, herbs and a little spicy heat.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. It can be refrigerated for several hours. For maximum crunch, add the dressing shortly before serving.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes. Lime gives it a slightly sharper, more refreshing flavor.

Can I add onion?

Absolutely. Thinly sliced red onion works especially well.

Is it actually zero calories?

No. “Zero-point” is a diet-program term and isn’t the same as zero calories. Cucumbers and the other ingredients still contain calories and carbohydrates.

How long does it keep?

Store covered in the refrigerator and use within 2–3 days. The cucumbers will gradually become softer as they absorb the dressing.