Easy Cucumber Salad

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This Cucumber Salad is a long time favorite that’s easy to make and hard to resist! Cucumbers and onion are tossed with a little sugar, vinegar and dill for a fresh, light side dish!

I’ve been a fan of cucumber salad ever since I tried it at a little restaurant in Charleston back in college. The served it kind of a like a free appetizer and my friend in college there loved it so we went for her birthday. Being a fan on vinegar-based things, this was right up my alley and I’ve loved it ever since.

Cucumber salad is one of the simplest things to make, yet it’s so light and refreshing making it perfect for a summer day. It feels pretty guilt free too, so I feel like I can eat as much o it as I want. It makes a wonderful side dish or even snack.

There are a couple types of cucumber salad out there – a creamy version and this more heavily vinegar version. I’m a big fan of this one. Bring on the vinegar!

overhead image of cucumber salad in white dish

Cucumber Salad Ingredients

Cucumbers – I used regular cucumbers that have seeds and have always used those, but you can also use seedless cucumbers.
Red Onion – I much prefer the flavor of red onion and definitely recommend it here. It’s ideal since it’s uncooked. A white onion would also work but gives a little different flavor.
Sugar – A little sweet to balance the tart vinegar.
Salt – For flavor, always.
Vinegar – Where most of our flavor comes from.
Fresh Dill – More great flavor.

close up of cucumber salad in a white dish

How to make Cucumber Salad

This is one of the simplest things to make. You slice the cucumbers and onions, which is the part that takes a little time, and then toss everything together. Easy peasy!

I’ve seen some versions where you let the cucumbers “sweat” prior to making the salad, and you can certainly do that, but I’ve never found it necessary. The cucumbers will release some moisture as the salad sits, but I personally don’t mind it one bit.

This salad is one that you can make a little bit ahead if you like. I actually prefer to let it sit for a few hours. The cucumbers absorb more of the vinegar and flavors and soften a little bit, which I love. But you can definitely serve it immediately too. Either way, it’s a treat for the tastebuds!

close up of cucumber salad in a white dish with a wooden spoon

More Great Side Dishes

Strawberry Feta Balsamic Pasta Salad
Three Potato Salad
Berry Fruit Salsa
Buffalo Broccoli Salad
Pineapple Salsa Pasta Salad

Print
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cucumber salad in white dish - angled shot
Recipe

Easy Cucumber Salad

  • Author: Lindsay
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Side dish
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cucumber Salad is a long time favorite that’s easy to make and hard to resist! Cucumbers and onion are tossed with a little sugar, vinegar and dill for a fresh, light side dish!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 6 tbsp white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill

Instructions

Combine all ingredients and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 2-3 hours, then serve. If you have leftovers, they should be fine stored well covered in the fridge for about 2 days. The cucumbers will soften with time.


Notes

For a fun twist on this dish, try red wine vinegar and some basil instead of dill. A delicious change.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size:
  • Calories: 23
  • Sugar: 2.6 g
  • Sodium: 294.8 mg
  • Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4.9 g
  • Protein: 0.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Categories

Lindsay
About Lindsay

I'm a wife and a mom to twin boys and a baby girl! And I've got a serious sweets addiction! Bring on the treats!

Scripture I’m Loving

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29