Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing cucumber onion salad is a simple, tangy side dish perfect for warm weather or whenever you need a light, crisp bite. Its bright vinegar dressing enhances the natural flavors of cucumber and onion, making it a delicious complement to many meals.
Ingredients
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ¾ cup water
- 1½ tsp. salt
- 1 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. sugar
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch coins
- ¼ sweet onion, sliced thin
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, stir together the white vinegar, water, salt, and sugar until the salt and sugar have fully dissolved. Transfer this mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: Add the sliced cucumbers and onions to the baking dish. Toss gently to coat them evenly with the vinegar mixture. Arrange the cucumbers with as little overlap as possible for even marinating. Cover and refrigerate for 1½ to 2 hours.
- Step 3: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and uncover it.
- Step 4: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cucumbers and onions to a serving bowl, leaving the excess liquid behind.
- Step 5: Drizzle a few tablespoons of the reserved vinegar mixture over the salad before serving. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped dill for added flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, try adding thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers alongside the cucumbers and onions.
- If fresh dill is unavailable, a sprinkle of dried dill weed can also enhance the salad’s flavor.
- Adjust the sugar quantity to suit your taste for a sweeter or more tart dressing.
Storage
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will soften over time but will remain tasty. Re-stir before serving and add a fresh splash of vinegar mixture if needed to brighten the flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cucumbers for this salad?
Yes, you can use any cucumber you have on hand, but English cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and fewer seeds, which keep the salad tender and less bitter.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the salad before serving?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 1½ hours allows the cucumbers and onions to absorb the tangy dressing, resulting in a crisp, flavorful dish.
PrintCucumber Onion Salad Recipe
This refreshing Cucumber Onion Salad is a perfect side dish featuring crisp English cucumbers and sweet onions marinated in a tangy vinegar-based dressing. The salad is lightly sweetened and seasoned with salt, then chilled to enhance its bright flavors. It can be garnished with fresh dill for an extra herbaceous note, making it a delightful accompaniment to summer meals or barbecues.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Dressing
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ¾ cup water
- 1 and ½ tsp. salt
- 1 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. sugar
Salad
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch coins
- ¼ sweet onion, sliced thin
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: In a medium bowl, stir together white vinegar, water, salt, and sugar until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Transfer this mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Vegetables: Place the sliced cucumbers and thinly sliced onions into the baking dish with the vinegar mixture. Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly. Arrange the cucumbers in a single layer with minimal overlap for best marination.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 1½ to 2 hours to allow the vegetables to soak up the dressing and develop flavor.
- Remove and Uncover: Take out the baking dish from the refrigerator and remove the cover just before serving.
- Serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cucumbers and onions into a serving bowl, leaving most of the dressing behind. Drizzle a few tablespoons of the vinegar mixture over the salad to enhance flavor. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped dill for a fragrant, fresh finish.
Notes
- For crisper cucumbers, slice them just before preparing the salad or soak them in ice water beforehand.
- Adjust sugar and salt levels according to your taste preference.
- Fresh dill adds a beautiful aroma but can be omitted or substituted with fresh parsley or chives.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a light snack on a hot day.
- Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 24 hours for maximum freshness.
Keywords: cucumber salad, onion salad, quick salad, easy side dish, summer salad, vinegar dressing
