Traditional Cucumber and Onion Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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This Traditional Cucumber and Onion Salad is a refreshing classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Its crisp texture and light, tangy flavor make it an ideal side dish or a quick, healthy snack. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients for Traditional Cucumber and Onion Salad

Starting with the star of the show, the cucumbers provide a cool, crisp texture that's incredibly refreshing. Make sure to choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch.

The red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the cucumbers beautifully. Its vibrant color also makes the salad visually appealing.

White vinegar is the key to the tangy vinaigrette, cutting through the sweetness and adding a crisp acidity.

Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar, creating a harmonious sweet-and-sour flavor profile.

Water dilutes the vinaigrette slightly, ensuring it’s not overpowering.

Finally, a touch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors, while fresh dill adds an aromatic, herbaceous note that ties everything together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crunch, chill the cucumbers in ice water before slicing.
  • Let the salad marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
  • If you prefer a milder onion taste, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, offering a refreshing contrast. It also complements heavier dishes such as casseroles or pasta, adding brightness and crunch. For a light lunch, serve it atop toasted bread or alongside a simple green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can work, but they will alter the flavor slightly.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Radishes or bell peppers can be great additions for extra color and flavor.

Traditional Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a large bowl and toss in your thinly sliced cucumbers and onions. You want them sliced thin enough to absorb the vinaigrette, but not so thin that they lose their crunch.

Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, and water until the sugar completely dissolves. This ensures your vinaigrette is smooth and well-blended.

Pour this tangy mixture over your cucumber and onion slices. Now, gently toss everything together, making sure each slice is nicely coated with the vinaigrette.

Season the salad with a few pinches of salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

Finally, sprinkle some fresh dill over the top just before serving. It’s the perfect garnish, adding both flavor and a pop of color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Refreshing and light, perfect for summer or any time you need a palate cleanser.
  • Simple yet flavorful, with a delightful balance of tangy and sweet.
  • Versatile — pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill, for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, and water until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cucumber and onion mixture.
4. Toss the salad gently to ensure even coating.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

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