Cucumber-Onion Salad
A refreshing cucumber-onion salad with tangy buttermilk and vinegar dressing, perfect for hot days and light meals, suited for those seeking a cool, crisp side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice cucumbers and onion.
- Blend the buttermilk, vinegar, salt, and pepper together.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced vegetables.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for several hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh dill or mint to the salad. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with a mixture of regular milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This salad can also be enhanced with chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for extra crunch. Make sure to slice the vegetables thinly for better marination.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cucumber-Onion Salad alongside grilled meats or fish for a refreshing complement. It pairs beautifully with Nutty Apple Salad for a light lunch. For a heartier meal, consider adding it to a wrap with your favorite protein. This salad can also be a perfect side for picnics or barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld, making it taste even better the next day. However, it's best consumed within 2-3 days to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber-Onion Salad contains roughly 63 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of vinegar in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile. Each type of vinegar will give the salad a unique taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling the cucumbers is not necessary; however, it can help reduce bitterness in certain varieties. If you prefer a more colorful salad, you can leave the peels on. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing.
How long should I marinate the salad?
Marinating for at least 2-3 hours is ideal, as it allows the flavors to blend and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. However, if you're short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference in enhancing the taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).