Quick Dill & Vinegar Cucumber Salad
A refreshing, tangy cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers and thinly sliced red onion, brightened by a simple dill and vinegar dressing. It's a light, hydrating side dish that comes together quickly, perfect for any meal, especially in warmer weather.
For 4 servings
Wash and thinly slice the English cucumber into uniform rounds. For the red onion, peel it, halve it, and then thinly slice it into half-moons.
Place the sliced cucumber and red onion in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, cold water, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Stir in the chopped fresh dill into the prepared dressing.
Pour the dressing evenly over the sliced cucumbers and red onions in the mixing bowl.
Gently toss the vegetables to ensure they are thoroughly coated with the dressing.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften. For optimal flavor, marinate for up to 1 hour.
Give the salad a final gentle toss before serving chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For uniformly thin cucumber and onion slices, consider using a mandoline slicer. This ensures consistent texture and better absorption of the dressing.
- 2If you find raw red onion too pungent, soak the sliced onion in ice water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad. This mellows its flavor.
- 3Taste the dressing before pouring it over the vegetables. Adjust sugar or vinegar to your preference – some like it sweeter, others more tart.
- 4This salad is best served cold. Make sure to give it adequate time to chill in the refrigerator before serving for maximum refreshment.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
Replace half of the vinegar with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer, creamier texture and a milder tang.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few thin slices of jalapeño to the dressing for a subtle heat that complements the tanginess.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate other fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or mint alongside or in place of dill for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad an excellent choice for staying hydrated, especially in warm weather or after physical activity.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
This salad provides Vitamin K from cucumbers and dill, and beneficial antioxidants from red onions, contributing to overall health and immune support.
Supports Digestive Health
The fiber content in cucumbers and onions, combined with the potential probiotic benefits of vinegar, can aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 4 hours in advance. For the best texture, avoid making it too far ahead as cucumbers can release a lot of water and become too soft.
