Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cucumber Vinegar Salad is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and refreshing. The crisp, thinly sliced cucumbers combined with the mild bite of red onions create a vibrant and satisfying side dish. The vinegar dressing adds a zesty kick, while the hint of dill ties everything together. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is ideal for warm weather meals, barbecues, or as a light, healthy snack. It’s a great way to use up fresh cucumbers while providing a burst of flavor in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, granulated sugar, water, salt, and black pepper until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. - Slice the Vegetables:
Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion to ensure they absorb the dressing evenly. - Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh or dried dill. - Toss with Dressing:
Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables and toss everything together to ensure the cucumbers and onions are coated evenly with the dressing. - Chill:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more vibrant and refreshing taste. - Serve:
Serve the salad chilled as a crisp, tangy side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add More Herbs: You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or mint to complement the dill.
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a few red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno to the salad.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your sweetness preference. You can also substitute honey for a natural sweetener.
- Vinegar Options: Experiment with different types of vinegar like apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different twist on the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover cucumber vinegar salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The salad may release more liquid over time, so you can give it a quick stir before serving again.
- No Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so it’s a great dish to make ahead of time for gatherings or picnics.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, regular cucumbers will work, but you might want to peel them as they have thicker skins, and you may also want to scoop out the seeds if they’re too large or watery.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld, so it can be prepared a few hours ahead or the night before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers, tomatoes, or even shredded carrots for extra color and texture.
How long should I let the salad chill?
For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes, though it can sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Yes, dried dill works just fine, though fresh dill will give the salad a more vibrant and fragrant flavor. If using dried dill, you only need 1/4 teaspoon.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, but keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste.
What other herbs can I use?
Along with dill, you could try adding fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil for a unique flavor twist.
Can I add a protein to make this a full meal?
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad more substantial as a main dish. It pairs well with a variety of proteins.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this cucumber vinegar salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Can I use this dressing for other salads?
Yes, this vinegar dressing can also be used for other fresh salads, like mixed greens, tomato salads, or even as a dressing for roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Cucumber Vinegar Salad is the perfect combination of light, tangy, and refreshing, making it a must-have side dish for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight meal. The crisp cucumbers and zesty dressing create a salad that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Give it a try for your next meal, and enjoy the bright and refreshing flavors that this salad brings to the table!
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Cucumber Vinegar Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cucumber Vinegar Salad is a light, tangy, and refreshing side dish featuring crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a zesty vinegar dressing. With hints of dill and a touch of sweetness, this easy-to-make salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a healthy snack. Simple, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables!
Ingredients
2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup white vinegar
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp water
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp dried dill or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
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Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and the sugar dissolves.
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Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion using a mandoline or sharp knife.
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Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh or dried dill.
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Toss with Dressing: Pour the vinegar dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeno for a spicy kick.
Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing the sugar.
Use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Tossing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
