If you’re looking for a light, refreshing side dish that’s easy to whip up, cucumber and onion salad is a perfect choice. This classic salad combines crisp cucumbers and sharp onions with a tangy dressing for a burst of flavor that complements almost any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a cool snack on a hot day, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make cucumber and onion salad with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Cucumber and Onion Salad
– Cucumbers: You can use small pickling cucumbers, English cucumbers, or regular salad cucumbers. English cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skins and fewer seeds, but any kind will do.
– Onion: Sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions work best for their mild flavor.
– Vinegar: White vinegar or distilled vinegar is commonly used for the tangy dressing.
– Water: To balance the acidity of the vinegar.
– Sugar: Just a bit to add a touch of sweetness.
– Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
– Optional extras: Fresh dill, garlic, or black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cucumber and Onion Salad
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling your cucumbers if you prefer, then slice them thinly. A mandoline slicer is great for getting even, paper-thin slices, but a sharp knife works fine too. Peel and thinly slice your onion as well. The thinner the slices, the better the salad’s texture and flavor blend.
2. Salt and Drain the Cucumbers (Optional but Recommended)
Sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt and place them in a colander or bowl to drain for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps draw out excess water, preventing the salad from becoming soggy and intensifying the cucumber flavor.
3. Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar and salt dissolve. You can add minced garlic here if you like a little extra kick. The dressing should be balanced between tangy, sweet, and salty.
4. Combine and Marinate
Add the drained cucumbers and sliced onions to the dressing and toss to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes, but ideally up to an hour. This marinating time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped dill or your favorite herbs for a burst of freshness. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for sandwiches.
Variations to Try
– Creamy Cucumber and Onion Salad: Mix cucumbers and onions with sour cream, lemon juice, dill, and garlic for a creamy twist that’s equally delicious.
– Add Other Veggies: Thinly sliced radishes, carrots, or tomatoes can add color and texture.
– Use Different Vinegars: Try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for subtle flavor changes.
– Sweeten Naturally: Substitute sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness.
Tips for the Best Cucumber and Onion Salad
– Use fresh, crisp cucumbers for the best texture.
– Thin slicing is key to a delicate and well-balanced salad.
– Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances the flavor and texture.
– Drain excess liquid before serving to avoid sogginess.
– Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially salt and pepper.
What to Serve with Cucumber and Onion Salad
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or fish. It’s a classic side for summer cookouts and picnics. It also complements heavier dishes like roasts or stews by adding a refreshing contrast. Try it alongside corn on the cob, tomato salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Cucumber and onion salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brightens up any meal with its crisp texture and tangy flavor. Give this simple recipe a try and enjoy a fresh, homemade salad that’s sure to become a favorite!
Refreshing, easy, and delicious—cucumber and onion salad is a must-have for your recipe collection.