This refreshing cucumber vinegar salad is a perfect side dish. With crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a lovely mix for your meals!
It’s super easy to make, and I love how it pairs well with grilled meats. Plus, it’s so light that you can almost pretend you’re being healthy while enjoying it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and less seeds, or regular cucumbers if that’s what you have. You can also try pickling cucumbers for a crunchier texture.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice zing. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for green onions or even shallots. You can skip onions altogether for a simpler version.
Vinegar: White vinegar is used for a sharp taste, while apple cider vinegar brings a sweeter profile. If you’re avoiding vinegar, lemon juice is a bright substitute.
Fresh Dill: Dill adds a nice fresh flavor. If you don’t have it, try parsley or mint for a different twist, or simply leave it out.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the salad. You can replace it with honey or agave syrup for a natural option, or use a sweetener of your choice.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
To keep your cucumber salad nice and crunchy, follow these tips:
- Slice cucumbers thinly. A mandoline can help achieve consistent thickness.
- Salt the cucumbers first. Let them sit with salt for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry to avoid a watery salad.
- Refrigerate the salad after mixing. Chilling helps flavors meld and keeps the cucumbers crisp.
- Add the dressing just before serving if you prefer maximum crunchiness.
Refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder taste)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a richer flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber vinegar salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors combine. So, all in all, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can serve this delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Thinly slice them using a knife or a mandoline for even pieces. The thinner the slices, the better they soak up the dressing and flavor!
2. Slice the Red Onion:
Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly. This will ensure it mixes well with the cucumbers and doesn’t overpower the dish with big chunks.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved; this might take a minute or so!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cucumber slices and the red onion to your bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently until the veggies are well coated. The dressing should cover all your cucumbers and onions nicely!
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using olive oil and fresh dill, drizzle the olive oil over the top of the salad and sprinkle the chopped dill. Give everything another toss to mix.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad extra refreshing!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, grab your salad from the fridge, give it a quick toss, and then serve it chilled. This salad is a delightful side that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own!
This salad is crisp, tangy, and lightly sweet—perfect for hot days or as a fresh accompaniment to your meals! Enjoy your refreshing cucumber vinegar salad!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are great for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers will work just fine. Pickling cucumbers can also add a nice crunch!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will soften a bit over time but will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the salad a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for the Sugar?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar alternative. Just adjust the amount to taste, as some substitutes are sweeter than sugar!
