Classic Cucumber Salad with Vinegar Dressing
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Crisp, refreshing, and full of summery flavor—this Classic Cucumber Salad with Vinegar Dressing is a timeless side dish that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to picnic fare.
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What I Love About This Cucumber Salad
I love everything about this salad! It’s made with thinly sliced cucumbers, a simple vinegar dressing, and with a touch of sweetness, it’s the kind of no-fuss recipe that’s always in season.
This cucumber salad with vinegar dressing differs from our creamy cucumber salad, primarily in the dressing. This recipe is dairy-free, tangy, and perfect for warm days when you want something light and cooling.
Hot summer days and cucumber salad make for a perfect pairing. This salad is so incredibly easy and quick that it’s the perfect accompaniment to any summer cookout, barbecue, or gathering.
Plus, it’s light and healthy!
Quick Cucumber Salad Ingredients
Thin slices of cucumber are the hallmark of this salad. Using a mandolin is an easy way to cut paper-thin slices.
This simple cucumber salad is made with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cucumbers – Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and thin skin, or peel regular cucumbers if preferred. Thinly slice for the best texture.
- Onion—I prefer using red onion because it adds a sharp bite and beautiful color contrast. Thin slices work best.
- Vinegar – White wine vinegar is a classic choice and gives this salad a bright, tangy, and robust flavor. Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute if you prefer a fruitier note.
- Sugar – Just enough to balance the tang of the vinegar.
- Salt and Pepper – To season and enhance all the fresh flavors.
- Herbs – Add herbs like fresh dill, mint, or parsley for added flavor and a traditional touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made a few hours ahead. Prepare and refrigerate it at least 1–2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. For best texture, enjoy within 24 hours.
White vinegar is traditional and gives the salad a crisp, clean flavor. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter and fruitier taste, or rice vinegar for a milder version.
Salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10–30 minutes, then drain or pat dry. This draws out excess water and helps keep the salad crisp after dressing.
Absolutely! This cucumber salad is naturally low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating and refreshing choice. Cucumbers are over 95% water and provide essential nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. They also contain antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. This vinegar-based salad is dairy-free and light, making it an excellent option for those seeking a healthy side dish.
More Fresh Summer Salads to Try
Looking for more refreshing and easy salad ideas? Here are some of our reader favorites:
- Simple Greek Salad – Crisp vegetables, olives, and feta tossed in a herby vinaigrette.
- Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing – A tangy and herbed twist on the classic, perfect for pairing with grilled meats.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad – Sweet, savory, and perfect for entertaining or summer brunch.
- Watermelon Salad – A juicy and refreshing salad with sweet and salty flavors.
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Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cucumbers (like English cucumber or Persian cucumber), thinly sliced
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 small onion thinly sliced, I prefer a red onion for a milder flavor
- 1 clove garlic minced
- freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: garnish with fresh dill or chopped fresh parsley or mint
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the cucumber slices with the sugar and salt and let stand for 10-30 minutes.
- Stir in the vinegar, onion, and garlic; refrigerate for 10 minutes, then serve chilled. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
I love this crisp and light salad. It takes only minutes to make and is perfect for summer gatherings. I also love that it’s dairy free and provides a delicious option for family and friends!