Cucumber onion salad has been my go-to for years when I need something light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to whip up. I remember my mom making a version of this salad during hot summer barbecues, and the crisp crunch of the cucumbers paired with the slight bite of the red onion was just divine. This simple cucumber onion salad recipe is so versatile; it’s the perfect side dish for grilled chicken, burgers, or even just a simple sandwich. The tangy dressing and fresh dill really make it sing. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Onion Salad
This easy cucumber onion salad is a winner for so many reasons:
- It’s incredibly refreshing and light.
- The prep time is minimal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of crisp cucumber and sharp red onion is delightful.
- It pairs perfectly with almost any main dish, from grilled meats to fish.
- This simple cucumber onion salad recipe uses common pantry staples.
- The tangy dressing with fresh dill adds a burst of flavor.
- It’s a healthy side dish that feels like a treat.
- You can customize it easily with your favorite herbs or a touch of spice.
Ingredients for Cucumber Onion Salad
Gathering the ingredients for this simple cucumber onion salad is a breeze! You’ll find that the quality of your produce really shines through in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced – I like to use English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, but regular ones work too if you peel them.
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced – Red onions offer a milder flavor and beautiful color, making this a truly classic cucumber onion salad.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil makes a difference in the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar – This provides the essential tang that balances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Fresh dill is key for that signature aroma and taste in this cucumber and onion salad recipe.
- 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper is always best!
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – Just a pinch to mellow out the onion’s sharpness if you prefer.
How to Make Cucumber Onion Salad
Whipping up this fresh cucumber onion salad is so satisfying, and it comes together in a flash. You don’t even need to turn on the oven for this one, which makes it perfect for those warm days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. The simplicity is what makes this recipe so beloved, and the result is always bright and delicious.
- Step 1: Start by preparing your vegetables. Wash the 2 cups of cucumber thoroughly and slice them into thin, crisp rounds.
- Step 2: Next, peel the medium red onion and slice it as thinly as you possibly can. I find a mandoline works wonders here for super thin slices, but a sharp knife will do the trick too.
- Step 3: Place both the cucumber and onion slices into a large mixing bowl. You’ll already start to smell that fresh onion aroma!
- Step 4: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. If you like a touch of sweetness, whisk in the 1 teaspoon sugar now.
- Step 5: Pour this tangy dressing evenly over the cucumber and onion mixture in the large bowl.
- Step 6: Add the 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped. This is where the salad gets its signature herbaceous flavor.
- Step 7: Gently toss everything together with a spoon or your hands until the vegetables are beautifully coated with the dressing. Make sure every slice gets a little love!
- Step 8: Cover the bowl tightly and let this amazing cucumber onion salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This marination time really allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 9: Before serving, give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a tiny bit more salt or vinegar makes all the difference.
- Step 10: Serve your delightful cucumber onion salad chilled for the most refreshing experience.
Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Onion Salad
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this simple salad. Following these tips will guarantee a delicious and perfectly balanced cucumber and onion salad recipe every time.
- For the crispiest salad, use English cucumbers or peel regular cucumbers to remove the tougher skin and seeds.
- Slice your red onion as thinly as possible. A mandoline is your best friend here, but a sharp knife and patience work wonders too.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! Letting the salad marinate for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the onions to soften slightly.
- Taste and adjust the dressing before serving. A little extra vinegar or salt can make a big difference.
What’s the secret to perfect Cucumber Onion Salad?
The real secret to a perfect cucumber onion salad is the balance of texture and flavor. Thinly slicing everything and letting it marinate in the tangy vinegar and dill dressing allows the ingredients to meld, creating a refreshing bite. For more on flavor balancing in cooking, check out this guide to balancing flavors.
Can I make Cucumber Onion Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can make this easy cucumber onion salad ahead of time! I often prepare it a few hours before serving. It allows the flavors to deepen. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cucumber Onion Salad?
A common pitfall is using thick onion slices, which can be overpowering. Make sure they’re super thin! Also, avoid over-mixing, which can bruise the cucumbers and make them watery. Gentle tossing is key for this fresh cucumber onion salad.
Best Ways to Serve Cucumber Onion Salad
This versatile vinegar cucumber onion salad is a fantastic addition to so many meals. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork chops; the acidity cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s also a perfect pairing for burgers or steak, adding a much-needed fresh element to your plate. For a lighter meal, try it with some crusty bread and a side of grilled fish. This salad truly shines as a refreshing complement to heartier dishes.
Nutrition Facts for Cucumber Onion Salad
This healthy cucumber onion salad is as good for you as it is delicious! Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving, though remember these are estimates and can vary based on your exact ingredients and portion sizes.
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 343
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1000mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cucumber Onion Salad
Properly storing this delightful marinated cucumber onion salad ensures you can enjoy its refreshing taste for days. Once you’ve finished serving, let any leftovers cool down slightly before transferring them to an airtight container. I usually use glass containers because they don’t retain odors, and they’re perfect for popping into the fridge. This simple cucumber onion salad should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, freezing isn’t ideal as the cucumbers can become mushy upon thawing. If you’re looking for a make-ahead option, I suggest preparing the vegetables and dressing separately and combining them just before serving to maintain that perfect crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Onion Salad
What kind of onion is best for Cucumber Onion Salad?
For the most pleasant flavor in this easy cucumber onion salad, I prefer red onions. They have a milder taste and a beautiful color that looks so appealing. If you can’t find red onions, a sweet white onion is a good substitute, but I’d avoid yellow onions as they can be quite sharp and overpowering for this simple salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this Cucumber Onion Salad?
Absolutely! This simple cucumber onion salad is wonderfully versatile. I often add chopped bell peppers for extra crunch and color, or some cherry tomatoes halved for a burst of sweetness. Some people even add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a bit of garlic to the dressing for an extra flavor kick. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!
Why is my Cucumber Onion Salad watery?
If your fresh cucumber onion salad turns out watery, it’s usually because the cucumbers released too much moisture. To avoid this, you can lightly salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water before dressing them. Gently pat them dry before adding them to the salad. This step really helps maintain that perfect crisp texture.
What’s the best way to slice the cucumbers and onions for this salad?
For the best texture in this vinegar cucumber onion salad, I recommend slicing both the cucumbers and the onions as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer is fantastic for achieving uniform, paper-thin slices, which helps them absorb the dressing beautifully and softens the onion’s bite. If you don’t have a mandoline, a very sharp knife and a steady hand will work just fine!
Variations of Cucumber Onion Salad You Can Try
This classic cucumber onion salad is a fantastic base, and I love playing around with different flavors and ingredients to keep things interesting. Here are a few of my favorite variations on this simple cucumber onion salad recipe that I think you’ll enjoy trying!
- Creamy Cucumber Onion Salad: For a richer, creamier version, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the dressing. It adds a lovely tang and smooth texture, making it a great side for barbecue.
- Dill and Garlic Cucumber Onion Salad: Amp up the flavor by adding a clove of minced garlic to the dressing. You can also increase the fresh dill or add other fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an even more vibrant taste.
- Marinated Cucumber Onion Salad: For a more pronounced flavor, let the salad marinate for longer, up to an hour. You can also add a pinch of sugar to the dressing to balance the vinegar’s sharpness, creating a delightful sweet and tangy profile.
- Spicy Cucumber Onion Salad: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the dressing. This adds a wonderful kick that complements the cool, crisp vegetables.
Cucumber Onion Salad: 10 Minutes to Freshness
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and light cucumber onion salad with a tangy dressing, perfect as a side dish for any meal. This simple salad combines crisp cucumbers and sharp onions with fresh dill.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds.
- Peel the red onion and slice it as thinly as possible.
- Place the cucumber and onion slices in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar if using.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture.
- Add fresh dill and toss everything gently until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a softer texture, peel the cucumbers.
- Red onions are preferred for their milder taste and color, but white onions can be used.
- The sugar is optional and helps balance the onion’s sharpness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 343
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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