Intro paragraph for Looking for a healthy side dish that's as refreshing as it is easy to make? This Cucumber Salad Recipe is exactly what you need! In just 15 minutes, you can create a salad bursting with crisp textures and tangy flavors that will brighten up any meal. Whether you're preparing a quick, light salad for a summer lunch or looking for a simple addition to your dinner spread, this Cucumber Salad Recipe is the perfect choice.
I absolutely love how this salad comes together with just a few basic ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s become my go-to recipe for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend BBQs; the balance of fresh cucumbers and a zesty dressing always hits the spot. If you're craving a side that's light, healthy, and incredibly simple to whip up, this Cucumber Salad Recipe should be at the top of your list! to give a quick overview of this recipe, and entice the reader to continue reading because your recipe is fan-freaking-fantastic. Bold your keyword once here.
Why You Will Love This Cucumber Salad Recipe
Cucumber salad is a beloved dish that finds its way into kitchens all over the world; from the classic German Gurken Salat to vibrant Asian cucumber salads, every culture has its own take on this refreshing favorite. What makes this Cucumber Salad Recipe so special is its versatility; you can serve it alongside grilled meats, pack it for a picnic, or enjoy it as a light and refreshing lunch during those hot summer days.
This healthy Cucumber Salad Recipe pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or any hearty main dish that needs a cooling counterpart. The tangy dressing beautifully cuts through rich flavors, while the crisp cucumbers provide that satisfying crunch we all crave. Whether you're looking for a side dish or a standalone snack, this Cucumber Salad Recipe is a must-try!
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
- Cucumbers (English or regular) – English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin
- Sweet onion, thinly sliced – Adds a mild bite that complements the cucumber's coolness
- Fresh dill, chopped – The classic herb for cucumber salad; parsley works as a substitute
- Salt for salting cucumbers – Draws out excess water for a crispier texture
For the Cucumber Salad Dressing:
- Black pepper – Just a hint of spice
- White vinegar – Creates that tangy base; apple cider vinegar works too
- Sugar – Balances the acidity perfectly
- Olive oil – Adds richness and helps the dressing coat evenly
- Salt – Brings out all the flavors
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep the Cucumbers
- Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular cucumbers, peel them completely since the skin can be tough and waxy. For English cucumbers, you can leave the peel on for extra color and nutrients. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this job super easy and gives you perfectly even slices.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Toss them well to coat every slice. This salting process is crucial; it draws out excess moisture, preventing your salad from becoming watery later. Let them sit for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Onions and Dressing
- While the cucumbers are salting, slice your sweet onion as thinly as possible. Paper-thin slices work best because they'll absorb the dressing beautifully without overpowering the mild cucumber flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the sugar completely dissolves – this usually takes about a minute. The dressing should taste tangy with a hint of sweetness.
Finish the Cucumbers
- After 30 minutes, rinse the salted cucumbers under cold running water to remove all the salt. This step is important – you don't want your salad to taste overly salty. Pat the cucumbers completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Getting them really dry ensures the dressing will stick properly.
Assemble Your Easy Cucumber Salad
- Add the dried cucumbers and sliced onions to the bowl with your dressing. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly. Sprinkle in the fresh dill and give it one final toss. The salad is ready to serve immediately, but it tastes even better after chilling for an hour.
- Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Slice and salt cucumbers to remove excess moisture
- Step 2: Prepare the Onions and Dressing
Thinly slice onion and whisk the tangy dressing together
- Step 3: Finish the Cucumbers
Rinse and pat dry salted cucumber slices thoroughly
- Step 4: Assemble Your Easy Cucumber Salad
Combine cucumbers, onions, dill, and dressing in one bowl
Hints & Expert Cooking Tips
Here are my best secrets for making the perfect simple cucumber salad every time:
- Choose the right cucumbers: English cucumbers give you the best texture because they're nearly seedless and have thin, edible skin. If you can only find regular cucumbers, scoop out the seeds with a spoon after slicing.
- Don't skip the salting step: This might seem like extra work, but salting the cucumbers prevents that dreaded watery mess that ruins so many cucumber salads. Trust the process!
- Make your slices uniform: Consistent thickness means every bite has the same perfect crunch. Too thick and they won't absorb the dressing; too thin and they'll get mushy.
- Taste and adjust: Every cucumber has a different water content, so you might need to add a pinch more salt or a splash more vinegar after mixing. Trust your taste buds.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad
- Transform this into an Asian cucumber salad by swapping the dill for cilantro and adding a tablespoon of sesame oil plus a teaspoon of rice vinegar. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it some heat.
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
- Turn this into a Mediterranean cucumber salad by adding halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of Kalamata olives. Replace the dill with fresh oregano for an authentic Greek flavor.
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Yogurt
- For a richer version, stir in ⅓ cup of Greek yogurt after mixing in the dressing. This creates a cucumber salad with yogurt that's perfect for serving alongside spicy dishes.
Summer Cucumber Salad with Avocado
- Add diced avocado just before serving to create a cucumber and avocado salad that's both creamy and refreshing. The healthy fats make it more filling too.
Low-Calorie Version
- Skip the olive oil entirely and add extra vinegar or lemon juice. You'll still get plenty of flavor while keeping this light cucumber salad under 30 calories per serving.
Equipment Recommendations
You don't need fancy tools to make this quick cucumber salad, but a few items make the job easier:
- Mandoline slicer: Creates perfectly uniform cucumber slices in seconds. If you don't have one, a sharp knife and steady hand work just fine.
- Large colander: Essential for the salting and rinsing process. Make sure it fits in your sink comfortably.
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for making the dressing separately if you prefer.
- Kitchen scale: While not necessary, weighing your cucumbers ensures consistent results every time.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage
- This best cucumber salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight as everything marinates together. Just give it a quick stir before serving since the vegetables may settle.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can prep all the ingredients up to a day ahead. Keep the sliced, salted, and dried cucumbers in one container and the dressing in another. Combine them just before serving for the crispest texture.
Freezing Instructions
- Unfortunately, cucumber salad doesn't freeze well because cucumbers have such high water content. They become mushy when thawed. This is definitely a recipe best enjoyed fresh.ys/weeks/months.
The Secret Behind My Favorite Cucumber Salad Recipe
This Cucumber Salad Recipe holds a special place in my heart, and it all started on a warm summer afternoon when I was experimenting with simple ingredients in my kitchen. I was craving something light, refreshing, and easy to make, so I reached for the cucumbers I had in the fridge. After tossing them with a bit of vinegar, olive oil, and a hint of honey, I took my first bite and knew I had stumbled upon something amazing. The balance of tangy, sweet, and fresh was just perfect!
Since then, this cucumber salad has become my go-to side dish for everything from quick weeknight dinners to picnics with friends. The secret lies in the simplicity—just a few fresh ingredients come together to create a flavor that’s both familiar and exciting. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that sunny afternoon when I found the perfect recipe for a refreshing, easy salad.
FAQ
What is the secret ingredient in cucumber salad?
A touch of sugar or honey is often the secret ingredient in cucumber salad, as it helps balance the acidity of the dressing and enhances the natural sweetness of the cucumbers.
What are the ingredients of cucumber salad recipe?
Cucumber salad recipe typically includes fresh cucumbers, red onion, fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), and a simple dressing made from vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sometimes a bit of sugar or honey.
What should not be mixed with cucumber salad recipe?
Avoid mixing cucumber salad recipe with overly creamy or heavy dressings, such as ranch or mayonnaise, as they can overwhelm the light, refreshing flavors of the cucumbers.
What dressing goes on cucumber salad?
A classic cucumber salad dressing is made from vinegar (white, apple cider, or rice vinegar), olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar or honey for balance. Adding fresh herbs like dill or mint also enhances the flavor.
Your New Favorite Cucumber Salad Recipe
This fresh Cucumber Salad Recipe is proof that the simplest dishes are often the most satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a versatile side dish that’s perfect for everything from laid-back weeknight dinners to those special summer BBQs. The combination of crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs brings a familiar yet exciting flavor that everyone will love. This Cucumber Salad Recipe is incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your taste, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you're serving it with grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, this Cucumber Salad Recipe never fails to impress.So, are you ready to try this deliciously refreshing Cucumber Salad Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment below with your favorite variations or share a picture of your creation. And don’t forget to rate the recipe—your feedback helps others discover this simple, tasty salad too.
If you're looking for more easy and delicious recipes, check out my Zucchini Noodle Alfredo Recipe and the La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe. Both are perfect for adding variety to your meal plans!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Cucumber Salad Recipe
Cucumber Salad Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mandoline slicer For evenly slicing cucumbers quickly and consistently
- 1 Large colander Used for salting and draining excess water from cucumber slices
- 2 Mixing bowls One for the dressing, one for mixing the salad together
- 1 Kitchen towel or paper towels For drying cucumbers after rinsing; paper towels also work fine
Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers English preferred, thinly sliced
- 1 medium sweet onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoon fresh dill chopped; parsley can be substituted
- salt for salting cucumbers
- ⅓ cup white vinegar apple cider vinegar as substitute
- 2 tablespoon sugar can sub stevia/monk fruit for low-carb
- 1 tablespoon olive oil skip for low-cal version
- ½ teaspoon salt for dressing
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers.
- Salt and drain cucumbers.
- Thinly slice onion.
- Whisk dressing ingredients.
- Rinse and dry cucumbers.
- Combine cucumbers, onions, and dressing.
- Add fresh dill.
- Chill before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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