Nothing beats a crisp, chilled cucumber salad on a hot summer day! Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic basket, or simply craving something light and healthy, this vibrant salad is the perfect side dish.
Made with fresh cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and fragrant dill, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.
✅ Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
- Hydrating & Light: With 95% water content, cucumbers help beat the heat.
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in just minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Low in calories, high in vitamins, and free from processed ingredients.
- Versatile: Goes great with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone snack.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers also work well)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (substitute with rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar if desired)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (can be reduced or substituted with honey or stevia)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cold water
👨🍳 How to Make Cucumber Salad
- Prep the Veggies:
Wash and thinly slice cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl. - Mix the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and water until fully dissolved. - Combine & Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber-onion mix. Add the chopped dill and gently toss everything together until well coated. - Marinate & Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and gives that perfect chill. - Serve Cold:
Enjoy as a refreshing side with grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or your favorite summer meal!
🌟 Optional Add-Ons to Customize
Want to take your salad to the next level? Try these delicious variations:
- 🧀 Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, salty contrast.
- 🍅 Diced Tomatoes: A juicy burst of color and sweetness.
- 🌶 Sliced Radishes: Extra crunch and a mild peppery bite.
- 🍇 Balsamic Vinegar: For a deeper, sweeter flavor twist.
❤️ Is Cucumber Salad Healthy?
Absolutely! Here’s a quick look at its benefits:
- Cucumbers: Great for hydration, skin health, and digestion.
- Red Onion: High in antioxidants; supports heart health.
- Dill: Natural anti-inflammatory; aids digestion.
- Vinegar: Balances blood sugar and adds zing without fat.
📌 Pro Tips for Best Results
- Soak red onion slices in cold water for 5–10 mins to reduce sharpness.
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin slices.
- Let the salad sit overnight for even deeper flavor (if you can wait!).
🥗 Final Thoughts
This Refreshing Cucumber Salad is the definition of summer simplicity — fresh, healthy, and irresistibly delicious. Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to side dish all season long.
