Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers and sweet onions in a tangy vinegar dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, it’s light, easy to prepare, and complements grilled meats or barbecues beautifully. This dish is ideal for those looking for a quick, healthy side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water, vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Combine vinegar mixture, cucumber, and onion in a shallow 2-quart container.
- Stir gently.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve salad with a slotted spoon.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the salad. If you're looking for a lower-sugar alternative, you can substitute honey or agave for the sugar. To enhance the crunchiness of the cucumbers, use English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. This salad is also vegan-friendly, making it a great option for various diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber salad as a side dish with grilled meats or barbecued dishes, such as Pork Barbecue Sauce. It also pairs beautifully with sandwiches or wraps. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside Aunt Lillian's Kraut Salad for a vibrant summer spread, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing, as the cucumbers' texture may change. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad contains roughly 55 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it up to a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier. Just give it a good stir before serving to incorporate the dressing.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize this cucumber salad by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for added color and crunch. For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of feta cheese. These variations can enhance the dish while keeping it refreshing.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This cucumber salad is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a refreshing and light option that fits well within vegan recipes. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or dressings to suit your taste while keeping it plant-based.
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).