The Best Homemade Cucumber Salad Recipe

Juicy cucumber slices, tangy dressing, and crisp onions await; discover why this refreshing salad is a summer favorite that’s impossible to resist.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This cucumber salad recipe is simple, revitalizing, and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how quick it is to make, with just a few fresh ingredients.

  • It’s light and crunchy, making it a great side dish for summer meals or BBQs.
  • The tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the crisp cucumbers beautifully.
  • Easy to customize, you can toss in extras like tomatoes, onions, or herbs for your own twist.

Recipe

crisp tangy fresh salad

This invigorating cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for any meal. Crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and fresh herbs come together for a light and flavorful salad that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions, tossing gently to coat.
  4. Sprinkle with fresh dill (if using) and mix well.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers.
  • Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste for a sweeter or tangier salad.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife

Time

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine

– American

Serving

– 4 servings

Nutrition

This revitalizing cucumber salad is light and packed with nutrients.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories45
Total Fat0.2g
Sodium2mg
Carbs10.6g
Fiber1.5g
Sugar4.9g
Protein2g

What To Serve With It

I love serving my cucumber salad with juicy grilled chicken—it’s a light, invigorating combo that always hits the spot. A slice of fresh, crusty bread on the side soaks up any extra dressing, making every bite even better. These pairings keep the meal simple but satisfying, perfect for warm days or quick dinners.

Grilled Chicken Pairing

When you’re serving grilled chicken, it’s easy to get stuck in a side-dish rut, but trust me—there’s so much more to explore than just steamed veggies or plain rice. I love pairing it with my homemade cucumber salad because the cool, crisp flavors balance the smoky, savory chicken perfectly. Add a scoop of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for heartiness. For a fresh twist, try grilled corn on the cob or a tangy coleslaw. These combos elevate dinner without extra effort. Experimenting with sides keeps meals exciting, and I promise, your cucumber salad will shine alongside grilled chicken every time.

Fresh Bread Complements

Although fresh bread is a classic addition to any meal, it’s surprising how much it can elevate dishes you might not expect. I love serving my cucumber salad with a warm, crusty baguette or soft focaccia—it soaks up the tangy dressing and balances the salad’s crispness. A slice of sourdough or rye adds a nice chewiness, while pita bread makes it easy to scoop up every bite. Don’t forget butter or olive oil for dipping! Trust me, the combo feels like a cozy picnic, even at your kitchen table. It’s simple, but that’s what makes it perfect.

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