Cucumber and Onion Salad
Crisp cucumber slices and thinly shaved red onion tossed in a bright, tangy vinegar dressing with a whisper of sweetness and fresh dill. This refreshing side comes together in minutes and is the perfect cooling partner for grilled meats, barbecue spreads, or any summer meal. Light, crunchy, and wonderfully simple.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Slice the cucumber and onion.
1.Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly.2.Thinly slice cucumbers into even rounds (about ⅛ inch thick).3.Peel the red onion, halve it, and slice into very thin half-rings. - mix · ~1 min
Whisk the dressing.
1.In the mixing bowl, combine white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.2.Whisk vigorously until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. - mix · ~1 min
Toss the salad.
1.Add sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing.2.Add chopped fresh dill.3.Toss gently with clean hands or two large spoons until every slice is coated. - rest · ~10 min
Chill briefly before serving.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This lets the flavors meld while the cucumber stays crisp.
TIPDon't skip the chill — it sharpens the tangy edge and makes the salad incredibly refreshing. - serve
Give a final toss and serve cold.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Persian or English cucumbers; they have fewer seeds and stay crunchier.
- 2Slice cucumbers and onions uniformly thin, about ⅛ inch, for even coating and texture.
- 3Taste the dressing before adding the vegetables; adjust sugar or vinegar to your preference.
- 4Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to marry the flavors without wilting the cucumbers.
- 5Serve the salad within 2 hours of making it for maximum crunch; it does not store well overnight.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Version
Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt after tossing for a richer, tangy-creamy salad that still has the fresh dill and crunch.
Tangy Herb SwapTangy Herb Swap
Replace the fresh dill with equal amounts of fresh mint or parsley for a different herbaceous note that pairs well with Middle Eastern or Indian meals.
No Sugar OptionNo-Sugar Option
Omit the sugar and add a few drops of stevia or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a low-carb, sugar-free version without losing the sweet-tangy balance.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a thinly sliced jalapeño or ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the dressing for a mild heat that complements grilled meats.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Calorie Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad a light, hydrating side that adds volume without many calories.
Rich in Vitamin K
Fresh dill and cucumbers both provide vitamin K, which supports bone health and blood clotting.
Low in Fat and Sugar
With just a teaspoon of sugar and no added oil, this salad is naturally low in fat and added sugars, fitting many dietary plans.
Antioxidant Support from Onions
Red onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Frequently asked questions
You likely salted them directly or let them sit too long after dressing. The salt draws out moisture, so just a pinch in the dressing and a short chill (10 minutes) keep them crisp.
