Best Cucumber Salad Recipe

This Cucumber Salad is light, refreshing, and the perfect side dish for any meal. Made with crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing, this salad comes together in minutes and is ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or a light, healthy lunch. With its simple ingredients and zesty flavors, this cucumber salad will quickly become a go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad Recipe

• Light & Refreshing: The crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing make this salad a refreshing side dish, perfect for warm days.
• Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, this salad is simple to make.
• Healthy & Low-Calorie: This cucumber salad is low in calories, full of vitamins, and perfect for a light meal or snack.
• Customizable: You can add additional veggies or herbs, like tomatoes or fresh dill, to make it your own.

Key Ingredients for Cucumber Salad

1. Cucumbers

• Use English cucumbers or regular cucumbers. English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making them ideal for salads. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and remove the seeds.

2. Red Onion

• Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, savory bite that complements the coolness of the cucumbers. You can also use shallots for a milder flavor.

3. Vinegar

• Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar works best for the tangy dressing. It adds a bright, zesty flavor to the salad.

4. Sugar

• A small amount of sugar balances out the tanginess of the vinegar, adding a touch of sweetness to the dressing.

5. Fresh Dill (Optional)

• Fresh dill adds a subtle, herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with cucumbers. You can also use parsley or leave the herbs out if you prefer.

How to Make Cucumber Salad

This easy cucumber salad recipe is light, refreshing, and quick to prepare. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers & Onions

• Slice 2 large cucumbers into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Thinly slice 1/2 of a red onion. If using regular cucumbers, peel them and remove the seeds before slicing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar), 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

• For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh dill if desired, and serve chilled.

Tips for Making the Best Cucumber Salad

1. Use Fresh Cucumbers

• Fresh, firm cucumbers give the best texture and flavor. If using regular cucumbers, peel them and remove the seeds to avoid bitterness.

2. Slice the Cucumbers Thinly

• Thinly sliced cucumbers absorb the dressing better and create a more cohesive salad. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.

3. Adjust the Sweetness

• You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking. If you prefer a more tangy salad, reduce the sugar or leave it out entirely.

4. Let It Marinate

• Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This helps the cucumbers absorb the flavors of the dressing.

5. Add Fresh Herbs

• Fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro can enhance the flavor of the salad. Add chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh touch.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Cucumber Salad

• Add 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy version of this salad. You can also add fresh herbs like dill for extra flavor.

2. Cucumber & Tomato Salad

• Add halved cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes to the salad for a burst of color and extra juiciness.

3. Spicy Cucumber Salad

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños to the dressing for a spicy kick.

4. Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

• Use rice vinegar and add a drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce to the dressing for an Asian-inspired twist. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

5. Cucumber Avocado Salad

• Toss in diced avocado for a creamy, healthy addition to the salad. This adds richness while keeping it light.

FAQs: Cucumber Salad

1. How Long Does Cucumber Salad Last?

• Cucumber salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water as they sit, so you may need to drain off excess liquid before serving.

2. Can I Make Cucumber Salad Ahead of Time?

• Yes! You can make the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator, and toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

3. Can I Use Other Types of Vinegar?

• Yes, you can use white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Apple cider vinegar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment.

4. Can I Make This Salad Without Sugar?

• Yes! You can leave out the sugar if you prefer a more tart and tangy salad. Alternatively, you can use a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.

5. What Can I Serve with Cucumber Salad?

• Cucumber salad pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, fish, or light summer dishes like pasta salad or sandwiches