This cucumber salad is a celebration of cool crunch and bright flavor. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with red onions and bathed in a tangy-sweet vinaigrette infused with fresh dill. It’s the kind of dish that complements everything—from grilled meats and spicy mains to creamy casseroles and picnic spreads. The salt draws out moisture from the cucumbers, intensifying their flavor and keeping the salad crisp. Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, this salad is a refreshing palate cleanser and a crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients:
Base:
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1¼ tsp kosher salt
Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 2 tsp granulated sugar (or honey)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or mint for variation)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for a smoother finish)
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds. You can use a mandoline for uniform slices or a sharp knife. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt. Toss gently and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
🧂 Why salt first? It concentrates the cucumber’s flavor and prevents sogginess later.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
After 20 minutes, drain off the liquid released by the cucumbers. Pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This step ensures your salad stays crisp and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and dill. Add olive oil if using, and whisk until emulsified. Taste and adjust—add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
🍯 Swap sugar with honey or agave for a natural twist.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the sliced red onions to the cucumbers. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss gently to coat. Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
🌿 No dill? Try mint, parsley, or chives for a different herbal note.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for up to an hour before serving for extra crispness. Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, or rice bowls.
🍽 Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with BBQ chicken, grilled fish, or spicy curries
- Add to wraps, tacos, or rice bowls for crunch
- Serve alongside creamy pasta or rich mains for balance
🔄 Variations:
- Creamy Cucumber Salad: Add ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing
- Asian Twist: Use rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes
- Tropical Remix: Add pineapple chunks and fresh mint
- Sugar-Free: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar
This salad is crisp, cool, and endlessly customizable. Want a creamy version with yogurt and garlic or a spicy one with chili oil and sesame seeds? I’ve got plenty of riffs to keep your salad game fresh and fabulous!