My Favorite Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad with tangy vinegar, fresh dill, and garlic, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, offering crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and sliced onion; set aside.
- In a large saucepan, mix together the white vinegar, sugar, chopped garlic, vegetable oil, salt, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and onions; add the white pepper and chopped dill, then mix well.
- Keep refrigerated and serve well chilled within 4 days.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the cucumbers and onions for a few hours before serving. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought dill pickle seasoning as a substitute for fresh dill. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinegar mixture. This salad is also great with sliced radishes for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side to sandwiches, making it an ideal accompaniment to a summer barbecue. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Deli Salad for a delightful spread. Garnish with additional fresh dill for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier over time. Avoid freezing, as the cucumbers will become mushy once thawed. Serve cold directly from the fridge for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite Cucumber Salad contains roughly 1019 calories, with 22g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (207% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), and iron (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2457mg per serving (107% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for white vinegar, though this may alter the flavor slightly. Each type of vinegar brings its unique taste, so choose one that complements your preference.
Is there a way to make this salad less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, simply decrease the amount of salt in the recipe. Additionally, you can rinse the cucumbers with cold water after salting them to draw out excess salt before adding the vinegar mixture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve for maximum freshness.
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).