There’s something magical about a perfectly made cucumber salad recipe on a warm summer day. Among all the cucumber salad recipes I’ve tried over the years, this one stands out as one of the simplest yet most flavorful versions you’ll ever make. What makes this cucumber salad special is its incredible versatility – it pairs beautifully with almost any main course while delivering a crisp, tangy flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
The secret to this exceptional cucumber salad recipe lies in its perfectly balanced sweet-tangy dressing that transforms ordinary cucumbers into something extraordinary. My special twist? The addition of fresh dill and chives, which gives this cucumber onion salad delightful « dill pickle vibes » that elevate it beyond your standard recipe. Trust me – after 20 years of perfecting salad recipes, this cucumber and onion salad has remained a consistent crowd-pleaser at every gathering.
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Why I Love This Recipe
After nearly two decades of refining recipes, I’ve developed quite a discerning palate, yet I continually return to this cucumber salad recipe time and time again. First and foremost, its simplicity is unmatched – with just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create something truly extraordinary in minutes. Furthermore, there’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming humble cucumbers into a dish that guests consistently rave about.
Most importantly, this recipe embodies what I believe good food should be: honest, uncomplicated, and deeply satisfying. Additionally, its versatility means it complements virtually any main course, from casual weeknight dinners to sophisticated dinner parties. Above all else, the bright, clean flavors provide the perfect counterpoint to rich, heavy dishes, creating that balanced meal we all strive for.
Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredients
The beauty of this cucumber salad recipe is its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cucumbers: For best results, I recommend English or Persian cucumbers. These varieties have thin, tender skin and tiny seeds, meaning you can skip the peeling and seeding steps entirely. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you’ll want to peel them and remove the seeds for the best texture. The salt in our recipe plays a crucial role – it draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, ensuring your salad stays crisp rather than watery.
Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds the perfect savory punch that balances the cool cucumber. The gentle bite of red onion creates a beautiful flavor contrast that makes this salad unforgettable.
Vinegar: White wine vinegar or rice vinegar works wonderfully here, providing the signature tanginess that makes this cucumber salad so refreshing. The acidity helps « cook » the vegetables slightly, softening their raw edge.
Honey or agave: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar. This small addition makes a world of difference, creating that perfect flavor harmony.
Salt: Beyond enhancing flavor, salt is the secret weapon in cucumber salad. It draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, concentrating their flavor and preventing a soggy salad.
Fresh dill and chives: This is my signature addition that transforms a good cucumber salad into the best cucumber salad you’ve ever tasted. The herbaceous notes of dill bring that unmistakable « pickle » flavor while fresh chives add a delicate onion note that complements the red onion perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper: A final seasoning that adds complexity and a subtle heat.
For complete measurements, see the recipe card below.
How to Make Cucumber Salad Recipe
Creating the perfect cucumber salad recipe couldn’t be easier! This straightforward process takes just minutes of active preparation:
- Start by slicing your cucumbers and red onion very thinly. For the most professional and consistent results, I recommend using a mandoline slicer, though a sharp knife and steady hand will certainly do the job. Aim for paper-thin slices that will readily absorb the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine your sliced vegetables with the dressing ingredients (vinegar, honey, and salt). Toss gently until everything is well coated. The magic begins immediately as the salt starts drawing moisture from the cucumbers.
- Now comes the crucial step that many recipes miss: refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. This waiting period isn’t just about chilling the salad – it’s essential for allowing the flavors to meld together and for the salt to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers. This step is what separates an average cucumber salad from an exceptional one.
- After chilling, use a slotted spoon to transfer your cucumber salad to a serving dish, leaving the accumulated liquid behind. This simple technique ensures your salad remains crisp rather than swimming in excess moisture.
- Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped dill and chives, then finish with a generous crack of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – sometimes a little extra salt or a splash more vinegar can perfect the balance.
Pro Tips for Cucumber Salad Recipe Success
Over the years, I’ve discovered several techniques that elevate this simple salad to restaurant quality. To begin with, consistency in slicing is absolutely crucial – aim for paper-thin, uniform slices that will absorb the dressing evenly. In addition to using the right cutting technique, the temperature contrast is key; consequently, I recommend chilling your cucumbers before slicing for the crispest texture possible.
Moreover, don’t rush the marinating process. Although 20 minutes is the minimum, allowing the salad to rest for up to an hour intensifies the flavor development significantly. Another game-changing tip: reserve a small portion of the fresh herbs to add just before serving – this two-stage herb addition creates remarkable depth of flavor.
Lastly, experiment with the vinegar types. While white wine vinegar is my standard choice, occasionally I’ll use champagne vinegar for a more delicate flavor or apple cider vinegar when I want a slightly deeper, fruity note.
Storage Information
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your cucumber salad. Initially, store any leftovers in an airtight container to prevent the cucumber from absorbing other refrigerator odors. Subsequently, place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
If you plan to enjoy the salad over multiple days, consider this alternative approach: after the initial serving, drain off all accumulated liquid before refrigerating. Then, just before each subsequent serving, add a small splash of fresh vinegar to revive the flavors.
In the unlikely event you have leftovers beyond 3 days, rather than discarding them, consider repurposing the salad! For instance, chop it finely to create a relish for sandwiches, or alternatively, blend it with a bit of yogurt for a refreshing cold soup.
What to Serve with Cucumber Salad Recipe
This versatile cucumber salad pairs beautifully with so many dishes, making it my go-to side for summer entertaining. Here are some perfect pairings:
For summer barbecues, this cucumber salad offers the perfect cooling contrast to grilled favorites like veggie burgers, black bean burgers, or traditional burgers and hot dogs. The refreshing crunch and tangy flavor cut through the richness of grilled foods beautifully.
It’s also an ideal companion for other summer classics like grilled corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, or a hearty potato salad. The light, crisp nature of the cucumber salad balances heavier side dishes.
For picnics, pack this cucumber salad alongside sandwiches or wraps. It travels well (especially if you keep it in a container with a tight-fitting lid) and maintains its delightful texture for hours.
During cooler months, I love serving this cucumber salad with heartier fare like pasta dishes or roasted meats. The bright, tangy flavors provide welcome contrast to rich, warming meals.
FAQs
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
It depends on the type of cucumber you’re using. English or Persian cucumbers have thin, tender skins that don’t require peeling. Regular cucumbers have thicker, sometimes bitter skins, so peeling is recommended. When in doubt, taste a small piece of the skin – if it’s bitter or tough, go ahead and peel.
How can I prevent my cucumber salad from getting soggy?
Three techniques work wonders here: First, salt the cucumbers and let them sit to draw out excess moisture. Second, make sure to chill the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. Finally, use a slotted spoon to transfer the salad to your serving dish, leaving behind the accumulated liquid. For make-ahead preparation, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until about 30 minutes before serving.
How long will cucumber salad keep in the refrigerator?
This salad is at its peak freshness within 24 hours of preparation. While it remains safe to eat for 2-3 days when properly refrigerated, the texture will gradually soften. The good news is that it rarely lasts that long – everyone always comes back for seconds!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but with a slight modification. For best results when preparing more than an hour ahead, slice the cucumbers and onions and make the dressing, but store them separately. Combine them about 30 minutes before serving time. This approach gives you the convenience of advance preparation while maintaining that perfect crisp texture.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 40–60 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6–8 g
- Sugars: 4–6 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0–2 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
- Sodium: 150–250 mg
- Vitamin C: ~10% DV
- Vitamin K: ~20–25% DV
- Potassium: 200–250 mg
More Favorite Salad Recipes
If you enjoy this cucumber salad, don’t miss these other refreshing summer favorites:
In conclusion, this cucumber salad recipe truly represents the essence of summer dining – simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Indeed, what begins as humble cucumbers and onions becomes a memorable dish that will grace your table season after season.
Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve learned that sometimes the simplest dishes leave the most lasting impressions. Undoubtedly, this refreshing cucumber salad proves that point perfectly. As you serve this dish to family and friends, you’ll certainly notice how quickly it disappears and how frequently guests request the recipe.
Finally, remember that cooking is ultimately about bringing joy through food. Therefore, don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own – perhaps add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for texture, or incorporate thinly sliced radishes for color and peppery bite. Above all, enjoy the process of creating something delicious from simple, fresh ingredients.
I sincerely hope this cucumber salad brings as much refreshment and delight to your table as it has to mine over the years. Happy cooking!
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Description
This refreshing cucumber salad features thin slices of cucumber and red onion in a sweet-tangy dressing, finished with fresh dill and chives for the perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and red onion very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, vinegar, honey, and salt. Toss gently to coat.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and for salt to draw out excess moisture.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer salad to a serving dish, leaving excess liquid behind.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh dill, chives, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
- If you plan to enjoy the salad over multiple days, consider this alternative approach: after the initial serving, drain off all accumulated liquid before refrigerating. Then, just before each subsequent serving, add a small splash of fresh vinegar to revive the flavors.