This fresh cucumber salad is one of the easiest and most refreshing side dishes you can make. With crisp cucumber slices, sharp red onion, and a sweet and tangy vinegar dressing, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal. The addition of fresh dill and chives gives it a savory, herbaceous finish that makes this simple salad anything but boring.
Best of all, this recipe comes together in minutes and requires only a handful of ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with everything from grilled veggie burgers and black bean burgers to classic picnic fare like pasta salad and corn on the cob. Whether you are hosting a cookout or packing a picnic, this cucumber salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Recommended For You
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers (very thinly sliced)
- ½ large red onion (very thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Cucumber Salad
- In a large bowl, toss together the cucumber, onion, vinegar, honey, and salt. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, leaving any excess water behind. Sprinkle with the dill and chives, if desired. Season with several grinds of pepper and serve.
Helpful Tips and Substitutions
Choosing Cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal for this recipe because they have thin skins and very few seeds, so they do not need to be peeled or seeded. If you can only find regular cucumbers, peel them and scoop out the seeds before slicing.
Sweetener Substitution: For a vegan version, replace the honey with agave nectar. You can also use granulated sugar for a neutral sweetness.
Herb Variations: If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber salad is a fantastic side dish for any cookout or picnic. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled items, such as veggie burgers or black bean burgers. It also pairs wonderfully with classic sides like corn on the cob, tomato salad, or coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
This cucumber salad is best enjoyed on the day it is made, as it is at its crispiest and most flavorful. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will release more water over time, so it is a good idea to drain any excess liquid before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you peel cucumbers for cucumber salad?
For this recipe, it is best to use English cucumbers, which do not require peeling. If you are using regular cucumbers, you should peel them and remove the seeds to avoid toughness and bitterness.
How do you keep cucumber salad from getting soggy?
The key is to salt the cucumbers and chill the salad for about 20 minutes. This draws out excess water. After chilling, transfer the salad to a serving bowl, leaving the watery liquid behind.
How long will cucumber salad last in the fridge?
While it is best fresh, leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Drain any accumulated water before serving again.
What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?
Rice vinegar is an excellent substitute and will give a similar, mild tang. In a pinch, apple cider vinegar can also be used.
