If you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, and packed with tangy zest, this Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s incredibly simple, yet delivers that perfect balance of crunch from fresh cucumbers and the sharp bite of red onions, all beautifully married by a slightly sweet and vinegary dressing. This salad feels like a cool breeze on a warm day and adds a bright pop of flavor and color to any meal. Whether you’re new to quick salads or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this dish is a reliable, crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe keeps things refreshingly straightforward with a handful of humble ingredients, each playing a crucial role in flavor and texture. The cucumbers bring the crunch and hydrating freshness, while the red onion offers just the right touch of pungency and color contrast. The dressing combines apple cider vinegar, sugar, sea salt, and pepper to create a lively, well-rounded tang that ties everything together.
- 2 cucumbers: Use firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch and juiciness.
- 1 red onion (sliced): Red onions add a beautiful purple hue and a gentle yet distinct bite.
- â…“ cup apple cider vinegar: This vinegar provides a bright, tangy backbone to the salad dressing.
- ¼ cup water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly to balance the sharpness for a smoother flavor.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement the acidity perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps mellow the onions.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and warmth to finish off the dressing.
How to Make Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by slicing each cucumber into thin ¼-inch rounds. The goal is to get consistent slices to ensure every bite delivers that satisfying crunch. Place these slices into a large mixing bowl where they’ll soon mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Add the Red Onion
Slice your red onion into half-moons – this shape lets the onion mingle perfectly with the cucumber slices without overpowering the texture of the salad. Toss the red onion slices gently into the bowl to combine with your fresh cucumbers.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse for your salad, creating a beautiful tang that brings the dish alive.
Step 4: Combine Dressing with Vegetables
Pour the dressing evenly over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly so each slice gets a lovely coating of the dressing, ensuring every bite sings with bright, fresh flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Allow the salad to rest in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully and gives the cucumbers a nice crisp chill that’s so satisfying.
How to Serve Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like dill or parsley on top just before serving to add an herbal kick and extra color. A few crushed red pepper flakes can bring a gentle heat contrast, elevating the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken or fish, offering a cool, tangy foil to smoky or rich flavors. It’s also fantastic alongside sandwiches or burgers, adding a refreshing crunch that brightens the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in a glass jar for a pretty, portable lunch option or serve it in a shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors upfront. For a party, place the salad atop a bed of mixed greens to create an elegant, layered presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, with the flavors continuing to meld and develop over time.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well because the cucumbers become watery and lose their crisp texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating isn’t recommended. It’s meant to be enjoyed chilled to preserve its crisp textures and bright, tangy flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Absolutely! White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can also work well, offering a slightly different but still delicious tang.
How long should I let the salad marinate for best flavor?
About 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge is ideal, but you can also prepare it a few hours ahead to let the flavors deepen.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan, containing only fresh vegetables and simple pantry ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Thinly sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes can add extra texture and flavor, making the salad even more vibrant.
What’s the best way to slice cucumbers for this recipe?
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice cucumbers into even ¼-inch rounds ensures uniform texture and optimal crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe is a little gem that brings freshness, tang, and crunch to your table with minimal fuss. Its effortless ingredients and lively flavors make it a versatile side that brightens up any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new go-to salad for every season.
Print
Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and simple cucumber onion salad featuring crisp cucumbers and tangy red onions tossed in a sweet and tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a quick snack that requires no cooking.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cucumbers, sliced into ¼-inch slices
- 1 red onion, sliced into half moons
Dressing
- â…“ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Slice Vegetables: Slice each cucumber into ¼-inch thick slices and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Onion: Slice the red onion into half moon shapes and add to the bowl with cucumbers. Toss gently to combine.
- Make Dressing: In a mason jar or small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves and ingredients are well blended.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture, tossing everything until the vegetables are fully coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve to let flavors meld and keep it cool.
Notes
- Use firm cucumbers like English or Kirby for the best crunch.
- Adjust sugar to your taste preference for sweetness.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated to deepen flavors.
- Serve chilled as a side for grilled dishes or sandwiches.
