Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, refreshing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, this Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe is destined to become your new go-to. Crisp slices of English cucumber mingle with bright, tangy vinegar and a touch of honey, all lifted by fragrant dill and the subtle zing of onions. This salad bursts with textures and flavors that are vivid yet gentle, perfect for cooling down on a warm day or as a vibrant side that complements a hearty main. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a picnic staple, or a party crowd-pleaser, this salad’s simplicity and charm will win you over from the very first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this salad is half the fun, and you’ll find that each one brings something essential to the table. From the crisp English cucumbers to the punchy red onion slices, every item plays a role in building a well-balanced, refreshing plate that is quick to put together.

• 2 large English cucumbers: Their thin skin and fewer seeds make for a tender-crisp texture and mild flavor that’s perfect for salad.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt: This draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers, helping the salad stay crisp and not soggy.
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a punch of sharpness and a lovely purple hue to brighten the dish.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced: These bring a subtle oniony freshness with a hint of sweetness, complementing the red onion beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Dill adds that classic, fragrant herbal note that makes cucumber salads irresistible.
• 1 ½ tablespoons champagne vinegar, or white wine vinegar: Offers a delicate tang that balances the sweetness and enhances freshness.
• 2 teaspoons honey: This adds a gentle sweetness that tames the acidity and rounds out the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: A subtle spice that lifts the salad and adds depth to every bite.

How to Make Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by thinly slicing the English cucumbers. The thinner the slices, the more tender and bite-sized they will be, which makes the salad so much more enjoyable to eat. Once sliced, toss the cucumbers with the kosher salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This process helps draw out extra water, preventing your salad from becoming watery and ensuring every bite is perfectly crisp.

Step 2: Combine Onions and Dill

While the cucumbers are resting, thinly slice the red onion and green onions. Chop up the fresh dill finely to release its aromatic oils. Mixing these together early on lets the flavors meld beautifully, preparing a vibrant base of freshness and aromatic notes.

Step 3: Drain and Rinse Cucumbers

After the cucumbers have released their excess water from salting, give them a quick rinse under cold water to remove the saltiness, then drain them well. Patting them dry gently with a clean towel helps maintain that crisp texture we want in this salad.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, honey, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. This simple dressing strikes the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and subtly spicy, and it ties together all the salad’s fresh components without overpowering them.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Combine the cucumbers, red and green onions, and dill in a large bowl. Pour over the dressing and toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each slice of cucumber is coated. Letting the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to harmonize beautifully.

How to Serve Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add extra layers of flavor, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or crushed walnuts on top right before serving. A few lemon zest shavings can also brighten the dish and add a subtle citrus aroma that pairs incredibly well with the dill and vinegar.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish, thanks to its crisp freshness that perfectly contrasts smoky, savory proteins. It’s also a wonderful complement to a picnic spread that includes sandwiches, cold cuts, or even spicy dishes needing a cooling foil.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try layering the salad in glass jars or clear bowls, showcasing the beautiful interplay of green cucumber, purple onion, and sprigs of dill. Alternatively, serve it atop a bed of mixed greens or alongside slices of ripe avocado for a heartier presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days when stored in an airtight container. However, because of the cucumbers’ high water content, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within this short timeframe to retain maximum crunch.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as cucumbers become mushy and lose their characteristic crunch once thawed. To maintain the best texture and flavor, enjoy this salad fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad designed to showcase crisp, refreshing elements, reheating is unnecessary and not recommended. It tastes best served chilled straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that regular cucumbers often have thicker skins and more seeds, which might affect the texture and slightly the bitterness of the salad. Peeling and deseeding them can help achieve a similar crispness and tenderness.

Is there a substitute for champagne vinegar?

Absolutely! White wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar make great alternatives. Just keep the quantity the same and adjust if you prefer a milder or stronger tang.

What can I add to make this salad more filling?

Adding sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even a handful of cooked quinoa can boost the salad’s heartiness while maintaining its fresh profile. For some protein, tossing in chickpeas or crumbled feta works wonderfully.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as written. Just ensure your honey is substituted with maple syrup if you want to make it strictly vegan-friendly while keeping the sweet balance intact.

How long should I salt the cucumbers?

Salting for about 20 minutes is ideal to draw out excess water without making the cucumbers overly salty. This step is key for maintaining crispness and preventing the salad from becoming soggy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe is truly a refreshing delight that’s perfect any time you want something light, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. From its crisp texture to its bright, balanced flavors, it’s a dish that feels like a little celebration in every bite. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!

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