Easy & Refreshing Cucumber Salad Recipe
Cucumber Salad
Quick, crisp, and loaded with flavor this easy cucumber salad is your new go-to summer side dish. Made with crunchy cucumbers, zesty red onion, and fresh dill, all tossed in a tangy-sweet apple cider vinegar dressing. It’s the perfect balance of light, healthy, and incredibly refreshing.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, packing for a picnic, or just need a quick side for dinner, this salad comes together in just 10 minutes (plus a quick chill) and steals the show every time.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and fresh produce
- Fast & Easy – 10-minute prep, no cooking required
- Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free
- Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients Breakdown
For Cucumber Salad
- English Cucumbers Thinly sliced for a crisp bite and cool, refreshing flavor. Their tender skin means there’s no need to peel.
- Red Onion Adds a pop of color and a mild, zesty bite that complements the cucumbers beautifully.
- Apple Cider Vinegar A tangy, vibrant base for the dressing that brightens up every bite.
- Honey or Agave Nectar A touch of natural sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar. Maple syrup works too for a vegan twist.
- Sea Salt Enhances the overall flavor and helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers.
- Fresh Dill Adds a clean, herby note that pairs perfectly with the coolness of the cucumbers.
- Fresh Chives (optional) For a light oniony flavor and a fresh green garnish. A simple way to elevate the look and taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper Brings a gentle kick and rounds out the flavors for a well-balanced finish.
Best Cucumber Salad Recipe
A light and refreshing cucumber salad made with crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and a tangy-sweet dressing perfect for BBQs, picnics, or quick summer sides!
Course: Side Dish Cuisine: Mediterranean Keyword: Cucumber Salad Recipe Prep Time: 10minutes minutes Chilling Time:: 20minutes minutes Total Time: 30minutes minutes Servings: 6
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ large red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or agave/maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives, optional for garnish
For Cucumber Salad
How to Make Cucumber Salad
- Slice & Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, vinegar, honey, and salt. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. - Chill It
Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad chill. - Drain & Garnish
Before serving, drain off any excess liquid. Add fresh dill and chives (if using). Season with black pepper to taste. - Serve & Enjoy!
Serve cold as a light and refreshing side with grilled meats, sandwiches, or Mediterranean dishes.
Variations & Tips
- No apple cider vinegar? Use rice vinegar or white wine vinegar as an easy swap.
- Want a spicy kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños.
- Make-ahead tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Drain liquid before serving.
- Using regular cucumbers? Peel them first and scoop out the seeds for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- This cucumber salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or salmon
- Burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ ribs
- Falafel, hummus, and pita bread
- Summer potlucks and picnic spreads
Nutrition Calories: 25 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 653mg | Potassium: 449mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 4g Vitamin A: 10 IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to peel English cucumbers?
Not at all! English cucumbers have thin, tender skin that’s great for eating as is. If you’re using regular garden cucumbers, peeling them helps create a smoother texture.
2. Can I make cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better after resting for a bit in the fridge. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before serving to keep it crisp.
3. How long does cucumber salad last in the fridge?
Store your cucumber salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh on the first day for the perfect crunch.
4. Can I add other veggies to this salad?
Absolutely! Sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes make great additions for extra color and flavor.
5. Is this cucumber salad vegan?
Yes! Simply
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a backyard BBQ, or just need a quick, healthy side dish, this cucumber salad is a no-fail favorite. It’s simple, refreshing, and guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try, and let the crisp flavors speak for themselves!
