Easy Cucumber Salad

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Refreshing, tangy, and effortlessly crisp, Easy Cucumber Salad is the ultimate side dish you never knew you needed. Whether you’re grilling out on a warm evening or craving something light and snappy to balance a heavy meal, this salad delivers with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of dish that comes together in minutes and disappears just as fast.

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Thinly sliced cucumbers get a quick soak in a vinegary, slightly sweet dressing, creating a cooling contrast to spicy or hearty mains. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories and fits into just about any dietary preference. A total win for weeknights or last-minute potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cucumber Salad

This cucumber salad is a go-to for busy days. It requires no cooking, uses ingredients you likely already have, and pairs beautifully with just about anything. It’s crunchy, hydrating, and hits all the right notes of tangy and sweet. Plus, it can be made ahead and even gets better as it sits.

What Kind of Cucumbers Should I Use?

English cucumbers are a great choice because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, which means you can skip the peeling. Persian cucumbers are another fantastic option with a tender crunch. Regular garden cucumbers work too, just be sure to peel and seed them for the best texture.

Ingredients for the Easy Cucumber Salad

To build the perfect cucumber salad, the ingredients must strike a balance between crunch, acidity, and subtle sweetness. You don’t need much to get there, just a few pantry staples and fresh cucumbers.

• Cucumbers: The star of the dish. Go for English or Persian cucumbers for the best crunch and fewer seeds.
• Red onion: Adds a nice sharpness and a beautiful pop of color.
• White vinegar: Provides the acidic kick that transforms plain cucumbers into something crave-worthy.
• Sugar: Just enough to balance the vinegar without making it overly sweet.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out water from the cucumbers and enhancing flavor.
• Black pepper: A subtle bite to round out the dressing.
• Fresh dill (optional): Adds an herby note that takes the salad to the next level.

How To Make the Easy Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Slice and Salt the Cucumbers

Thinly slice your cucumbers and place them in a colander. Sprinkle generously with salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. This pulls out excess moisture and keeps the salad from getting soggy.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel and place them in a large bowl. Add in thinly sliced red onions and pour the dressing over. Toss well to coat.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld. Sprinkle with fresh dill before serving if using.

How to Serve and Store This Cucumber Salad

This Easy Cucumber Salad makes about 4 servings as a side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or anything rich that benefits from a crisp contrast. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor intensifies over time, though the cucumbers will soften slightly. If you’re making it ahead for guests, prepare it the night before for peak taste.

What to Serve With Easy Cucumber Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The cool tang of cucumber salad complements smoky grilled meats like a charm.

Salmon Fillets

Whether baked or grilled, salmon’s richness is beautifully cut by this crisp salad.

Cheeseburger Sliders

These cheeseburger sliders with Hawaiian rolls make a fun and hearty match.

Cajun Potato Soup

Try this cajun potato soup for a warm and spicy balance.

Barbecue Ribs

Toss this on the side of a plate loaded with saucy ribs for a refreshing contrast.

Chicken Parmesan Linguine

It’s creamy, cheesy, and needs a crisp salad to break through the richness like this chicken parmesan linguine.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Try pairing with smoky fried green tomatoes for a Southern-inspired menu.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love how quick and fresh this cucumber salad is, here are more to explore:

• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad is creamy and comforting for family dinners.
• Old Fashioned Pea Salad offers a vintage touch with loads of texture.
• Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad for a protein-packed twist.
• Zesty Taco Pasta Salad if you’re craving something with a bit more kick.
• Creamy Corn Dip as an unexpected side swap.

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Let me know in the comments how you liked it. Did you use dill or go with something else? I’d love to hear if you gave it a spicy spin or served it with your favorite BBQ.

Explore beautifully curated, refreshing recipes and daily inspirations on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dishes that keep things fresh and simple.

Conclusion

Easy Cucumber Salad is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy prep to create something seriously delicious. It’s crisp, light, and versatile—ready to elevate weeknight dinners or take your cookout spread to the next level. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, it always hits the spot.

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