Easy cucumber salad Recip
Craving something fresh, light, and incredibly refreshing? This easy cucumber salad recipe is my go-to side dish when I want big flavor with minimal effort. Inspired by classic European cucumber salads, this dish combines thinly sliced cucumbers, crisp red onions, tangy white wine vinegar, and a touch of natural sweetness from honey. Fresh dill brings everything together, making this salad perfect for summer meals, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners. Best of all, it comes together in minutes and tastes even better as it chills.
Ingredients List
Salad 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)
Required Kitchen Tools
When I make this easy cucumber salad, I keep the tools simple. Having the right basics on hand makes prep fast and effortless.
Sharp Chef’s Knife or Mandoline: Thin, even slices are key for the best texture and flavor absorption.
Large Mixing Bowl: I use this to combine and toss all the ingredients evenly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements help balance the sweet and tangy dressing perfectly.
Cutting Board: A stable surface makes slicing cucumbers and onions safer and easier.
With these simple tools ready, I can move straight into preparing the salad without any hassle.
Salad Preparation
Preparing this easy cucumber salad is quick, simple, and requires no cooking at all. I focus on slicing the vegetables properly and creating a balanced dressing so every bite is crisp, refreshing, and full of flavor.
Preparing the Vegetables
I start by washing the English cucumbers thoroughly and patting them dry. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, I slice the cucumbers very thinly to ensure they absorb the dressing well. Next, I thinly slice half of a large red onion. Keeping the slices thin helps mellow the onion’s sharpness and blends it smoothly into the salad.
Once sliced, I place the cucumbers and red onions into a large mixing bowl and gently toss them together so they’re evenly distributed.
Mixing the Dressing
In a small bowl, I whisk together the white wine vinegar, honey (or agave nectar), and sea salt. This simple dressing creates the perfect balance of tangy, slightly sweet, and savory flavors. I pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture, then toss everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly without breaking them.
At this stage, the salad already looks fresh and vibrant, but the flavor truly develops as it rests.
Flavor Enhancement and Chilling
This is the step where my easy cucumber salad really comes to life. Allowing the flavors to meld together makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Adding Fresh Herbs
After tossing the salad with the dressing, I add the chopped fresh dill directly into the bowl. Dill adds that classic, refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with cucumbers and vinegar. I gently mix everything once more to ensure the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
If I’m planning to garnish later, I set aside a small amount of chopped chives for the final touch before serving.
Chilling Time for Best Flavor
For the best results, I cover the bowl and place the cucumber salad in the refrigerator for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the cucumbers to release a bit of their natural juices while soaking up the tangy dressing. The result is a crisp, cool, and incredibly refreshing salad.
Before serving, I give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and herbs evenly.
Serving, Storage, and Final Thoughts
This easy cucumber salad is best served cold and makes a refreshing addition to almost any meal. I love how versatile it is, whether I’m serving it as a light side dish or enjoying it on its own.
Serving Suggestions and Garnish
Before serving, I give the salad one last gentle toss and transfer it to a serving bowl. For a fresh finishing touch, I sprinkle chopped chives on top, which adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. This cucumber salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, seafood, or simple vegetarian meals. It’s especially refreshing during warm weather and summer gatherings.
Storage Instructions
If I have leftovers, I store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will continue to release liquid over time, so I simply give the salad a quick stir before serving again. I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as cucumbers lose their crisp texture once thawed.
Conclusion
This easy cucumber salad recipe proves that simple ingredients can create bold, refreshing flavors. With crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, a hint of sweetness, and fresh herbs, this dish comes together effortlessly and delivers consistent results every time. I love how quick it is to prepare and how it complements a wide variety of meals. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a summer get-together, this cucumber salad is a reliable, crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
