Cucumber and Onion Salad
A classic Southern side dish that's crisp, tangy, and refreshingly sweet. Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions are marinated in a simple vinegar and sugar dressing, making it the perfect cool contrast for any summer meal, potluck, or barbecue.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Prepare the vegetables
- a.Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers and Vidalia onion into very thin, uniform rounds (about 1/8-inch thick). Place the sliced vegetables in a large non-reactive bowl (glass or ceramic is best).
- 2
Make the dressing
- a.In a separate medium bowl, combine the white vinegar, cold water, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- 3
Combine and marinate
- a.Pour the vinegar dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions. Add the freshly chopped dill and ground black pepper. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the vegetables are coated in the dressing.
- 4
Chill the salad
- a.Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to marinate. For a more pronounced flavor, chill for 1-2 hours.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve. Give the salad a final gentle stir before serving. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crisp cucumbers, salt the slices and let them sit in a colander for 30 minutes to draw out excess water. Rinse well and pat dry before adding the dressing.
- 2A mandoline slicer is the key to achieving paper-thin, consistent slices which absorb the dressing beautifully.
- 3Use a sweet onion variety like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui for the best flavor and a milder bite.
- 4The salad's flavor deepens as it sits. It's even better if made a few hours ahead of serving.
- 5Always use a non-reactive bowl like glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. Acidic ingredients like vinegar can react with aluminum or copper bowls.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vinegar
Substitute apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang or red wine vinegar for a bolder flavor.
HerbHerb
If you don't have fresh dill, you can use 2 teaspoons of dried dill. Fresh parsley or chives also work well.
SpicySpicy
Add a thinly sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
VegetableVegetable
Add thinly sliced bell peppers (red or green) or radishes for extra color and crunch.
SweetenerSweetener
For a different flavor profile, you can replace the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. Adjust the quantity to your taste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, making this salad an excellent and flavorful way to help you stay hydrated, especially during warm weather.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are a great source of antioxidants, including quercetin, which helps combat inflammation and fight free radicals in the body.
Low in Calories
As a vegetable-based side dish, this salad is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a light and refreshing addition to any meal without adding heaviness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a relatively healthy side dish. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while onions provide antioxidants. However, it does contain a significant amount of sugar, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake.