Crisp Cucumber and Vinegar Delight

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

Welcome to the world of fresh and zesty flavors with our Crisp Cucumber and Vinegar Delight. This refreshing salad is perfect for those hot summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. It’s a simple dish that brings vibrant ingredients together for a palate-cleansing experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — ideal for busy weeknights.
  • A refreshing side dish that pairs well with various main courses.
  • Perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
  • Uses fresh ingredients that are readily available year-round.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by giving your cucumbers and red onion a good wash. You’ll want to slice them thinly; a sharp knife or mandoline can make quick work of this. The thinner, the better, as it allows the dressing to soak in nicely.

In a large bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. You’ll know it’s ready when the sugar has completely dissolved. This dressing is what will infuse the cucumbers with that lovely tangy flavor.

Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and dill to the bowl. Toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated with the vinegar mixture. You’ll see the salad come to life as the ingredients mix.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This rest period is essential — it gives the flavors time to meld and develop.

Before serving, give the salad another good toss to ensure all those flavors are well-distributed. Then, it’s ready to be enjoyed!

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra-crunchy salad, soak the cucumber slices in ice water for a few minutes before tossing them with the dressing.
  • If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the red onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
  • Adjust the sugar and vinegar ratio to suit your taste — a little more sugar for sweetness or extra vinegar for tanginess.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, especially chicken or fish. It also works wonderfully alongside a hearty sandwich or as a topping for burgers. For a light lunch, serve it on a bed of fresh greens with a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cucumber?
Yes, English cucumbers are a great alternative if you prefer a seedless variety.
How long can I store this salad?
It will keep for up to two days in the refrigerator, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day ahead. Just give it a stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Ingredients Explained

The star of the show here is the humble cucumber, providing a refreshing crunch and mild flavor. We add white vinegar for a tangy kick, which is balanced by the sweetness of sugar. A sprinkle of salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper adds a hint of warmth. The fresh dill brings an aromatic, grassy note that elevates the salad. Finally, red onion offers a sharp, sweet contrast and a pop of color.

Simplified Instructions

1. Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Toss the salad again before serving.

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