Here is a light, refreshing cucumber salad recipe that’s perfect for any occasion whether it’s a summer barbecue, a simple lunch, or a healthy snack. The cucumber salad recipe highlights the crispness and flavor of cucumbers, combined with a zesty dressing and fresh herbs. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requires only a handful of ingredients, and can be prepared in minutes.
There are many variations of cucumber salad, from creamy to tangy, and from Asian-inspired to Mediterranean flavors. Here, we’ll focus on a simple, classic cucumber salad recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients for the cucumber salad recipe
To make this refreshing cucumber salad recipe, you’ll need just some simple ingredients. It’s light, tangy, and bursting with flavor.
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably seedless or English cucumbers)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for a natural option use honey)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Optional add-ins: cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, or radishes
Instructions for Making Cucumber Salad recipe
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing and drying the cucumbers. If you’re using regular cucumbers with large seeds, you can either peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons for a more bite-sized version. If the cucumbers are particularly watery, sprinkle a bit of salt on the slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Slice the Onion
Thinly slice the red onion into half-moon shapes or rings. If you find raw onion too strong in flavor, you can soak the slices in cold water for 5-10 minutes to reduce their bite, then drain well.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers and onions together. Pour the dressing over the veggies and mix gently until everything is well coated.
5. Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate the cucumber salad for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soak up the tangy dressing, making the salad even more refreshing. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley right before serving for an added burst of flavor.
Why this cucumber salad recipe is a Perfect Choice
This cucumber salad recipe is not only quick and easy, but it’s also incredibly healthy. Cucumbers are mostly water, making them hydrating and low in calories, while the vinegar dressing adds a zesty punch without the need for heavy ingredients. It’s a great side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even a light snack on its own.
Here are a few reasons why this cucumber salad recipe should be a staple in your meal rotation:
- Hydrating and Light: Cucumbers are composed of over 95% water, making this salad a great choice for staying hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
- Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Rich: This cucumber salad is naturally low in calories but rich in nutrients like vitamins K, C, and potassium.
- Customizable: You can adjust the cucumber salad recipe ingredients to suit your tastes, adding other vegetables, herbs, or even protein like feta cheese for a heartier dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The longer this cucumber salad sits, the more the cucumbers absorb the dressing, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep.
Variations of Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it with different flavors and ingredients based on your preferences or the cuisine you’re inspired by. Here are a few fun variations:
- Creamy Cucumber Salad: For a creamy version of the cucumber salad, substitute the vinegar with Greek yogurt or sour cream, and add a bit of fresh dill for flavor. This creates a more indulgent salad that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
- Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad: Swap the olive oil and vinegar with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add some chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian twist that’s perfect as a side to stir-fries or noodle dishes.
- Mediterranean Cucumber Salad: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean-style cucumber salad. This pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or lamb.
- Cucumber-Tomato Salad: Combine the cucumbers with cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, and crumbled feta or mozzarella. This creates a colorful, vibrant salad that’s perfect for summer.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad
- Use Seedless Cucumbers: If possible, opt for English or Persian cucumbers. They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which means you can skip peeling and the cucumber salad will have a less watery texture.
- Salt the Cucumbers: To prevent your salad from becoming too watery, sprinkle some salt on the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes before patting them dry. This draws out excess moisture and ensures a crisper texture.
- Serve Chilled: This salad is best served cold, so be sure to refrigerate it for a bit before serving. It makes the flavors pop and adds to the refreshing quality of the dish.
- Make it Ahead: The salad gets better with time, as the cucumbers absorb the flavors of the dressing. It can be made a few hours ahead or even the night before serving.
FAQs About this cucumber salad recipe
Can I make cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, cucumber salad tastes even better when it’s had some time to sit and absorb the flavors of the dressing. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Can I use different types of vinegar for this cucumber salad recipe?
Absolutely! White vinegar is a classic choice, but you can use apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Why is my cucumber salad watery?
Cucumbers naturally release water, especially when salted. To avoid this, pat the cucumbers dry after slicing and avoid letting the salad sit too long before serving. You can also salt the cucumbers before assembling the salad to draw out some of the excess moisture.
Is cucumber salad healthy?
Yes, this cucumber salad recipe is low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates while being high in hydration and essential vitamins like Vitamin K. It’s a nutritious side dish or snack that fits into most diets.
How long can i keep the cucumber salad in the fridge?
Cucumber salad can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Beyond that, the cucumbers may start to lose their crispness.
This simple cucumber salad recipe is the ultimate refreshing side dish for any meal. Light, crisp, and tangy, it pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a stand-alone snack on a warm day. Its versatility means you can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, and add-ins to suit your tastes, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. Whip it up in minutes, serve it chilled, and enjoy a fresh burst of flavor!
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