Welcome back to my kitchen adventures! Today, I’m thrilled to share a refreshing recipe that has a special place in my heart – Cucumber Onion Salad. This simple, yet flavorful salad has been a staple at my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my grandmother would prepare this salad for every summer picnic and barbecue. Its crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet taste perfectly complemented the grilled meats and other hearty dishes on our table.
During a recent trip to a quaint countryside market, I stumbled upon some incredibly fresh cucumbers and sweet onions. Instantly, memories of my grandmother’s kitchen came flooding back. I decided it was time to bring this beloved recipe to my blog, with a few of my own tweaks that add a little extra flair.
The beauty of this Cucumber Onion Salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. The base of the salad is straightforward – thinly sliced English cucumber and red onion, marinated in a tangy dressing of distilled white vinegar, water, sugar, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper. The salad is then finished with a generous sprinkle of minced fresh dill, which adds a burst of herbaceous freshness.
One of the tweaks I love making to this recipe is adding a bit of thinly sliced radish for extra crunch and a pop of color. Another variation that has become a favorite in my household is using apple cider vinegar instead of distilled white vinegar. The apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweeter and fruitier note that pairs wonderfully with the cucumbers and onions.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate this salad to new heights. And if you’re looking for a heartier version, adding a handful of crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado can make this salad a more substantial side dish or even a light lunch on its own.
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cucumber Onion Salad as much as I do. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the fresh flavors of summer, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or casual get-together with friends. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Making Cucumber Onion Salad
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced (around 1 pound)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced
- 1/2 red or sweet onion, quartered and very thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, water, sugar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until the sugar and salt are mostly dissolved.
- Add the thinly sliced cucumber and onion to the bowl, stirring until well combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour, stirring occasionally during that time.
- When ready to serve, drain any excess liquid, mix in the fresh dill, and serve immediately.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of vinegar for this salad?
Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
How long can I store the cucumber onion salad in the refrigerator?
You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the vegetables may lose some of their crispness.
Is it necessary to use an English cucumber, or can I use another variety?
While English cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and fewer seeds, you can use regular cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and remove the seeds for the best texture.
What can I serve with cucumber onion salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a side dish for a barbecue. It also complements dishes like sandwiches, burgers, and wraps.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
How can I make this salad less tangy?
If you prefer a less tangy salad, you can reduce the amount of vinegar and increase the water. Adjust the sugar to balance the flavors according to your taste.
Cucumber Onion Salad
Ingredients
- ½ cup distilled white vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 large English cucumber thinly sliced (about 1 pound)
- ½ red or sweet onion cut into quarters and very thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the salt and sugar are mostly dissolved. Add the sliced cucumber and onion, stirring to combine.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 60 minutes, stirring once or twice during that time.
- When ready to serve, drain the excess liquid, stir in the fresh dill, and serve immediately.
