Fresh Cucumber Salad with Dill & Vinaigrette
1. Introduction
A good cucumber salad has a way of bringing freshness to the table with very little effort. Crisp cucumber slices, a tangy vinaigrette, and a touch of dill come together to create a dish that’s cooling, light, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or just want something bright alongside dinner, this Cucumber Salad always fits the moment.
One of the best things about this salad is how simple it is. The ingredients are everyday staples, the prep is quick, and the flavor is bright enough to pair well with almost anything. This recipe walks you through how to slice the cucumbers for the best texture, how to build a balanced dressing, and how to assemble everything for maximum freshness.
By the end, you’ll have a cucumber salad that’s crisp, tangy, and balanced—never soggy or watered down. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Cucumbers
Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a crisp texture. Regular cucumbers also work; simply peel them and remove seeds if needed.
Red Onion
Adds a mild sharpness that cuts through the coolness of the cucumbers. Slice very thin for best balance.
Fresh Dill
Dill brings a bright herbal flavor that pairs naturally with cucumbers. Substitute with parsley or chives if preferred.
Vinegar
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work. They give the salad its signature tang.
Olive Oil
Adds smoothness and helps the dressing cling to the cucumbers.
Sugar
Just a touch helps balance acidity without making the salad sweet.
Salt and Pepper
Salt draws moisture from cucumbers and intensifies flavor. Pepper adds a mild bite.
Substitutions
- Vinegar → white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, lemon juice
- Olive oil → avocado oil or neutral oil
- Dill → parsley, basil, chives
- Sugar → honey or maple syrup
- Add-ins → tomatoes, feta, sliced radishes, yogurt dressing
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Slice the Cucumbers
Cut cucumbers into thin rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Thinner slices absorb dressing better and stay crisp.
2. Salt the Cucumbers
Place cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water and prevents the salad from becoming watery.
3. Slice the Red Onion
Cut the onion into very thin slices. Rinse briefly under cold water to soften the bite if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and the sugar dissolves.
5. Assemble the Salad
Pat the cucumbers dry, then place them in a bowl. Add red onion and fresh dill.
6. Add the Dressing
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all slices evenly.
7. Chill Before Serving
Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes so the flavors blend and the cucumbers stay crisp.
4. Tips and Variations
- Slice cucumbers as evenly as possible for consistent texture.
- Salting cucumbers is key to preventing sogginess.
- For a creamy version, replace the vinaigrette with a sour cream or yogurt-based dressing.
- Add sliced tomatoes for a refreshing summer twist.
- Add feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean version.
- Use Persian cucumbers for a naturally crisp and delicate texture.
5. Serving Suggestions
Cucumber Salad pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Barbecue dishes
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Pasta dishes
- Rice bowls
Garnish Ideas
- Extra fresh dill
- Cracked black pepper
- A splash of vinegar just before serving
Drink Pairings
- Iced tea
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Light white wines like Pinot Grigio
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Best eaten within 1–2 days for maximum crispness.
- Do not freeze; cucumbers lose texture after thawing.
- If the salad releases extra liquid, drain slightly and adjust seasoning.
- Add fresh herbs just before serving if making ahead.
7. Recipe Notes
- Use a mandoline for ultra-thin slices if you want a more delicate texture.
- Chill cucumbers before slicing for extra crispness.
- This recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings.
- Add dressing right before serving if preparing in advance for several hours.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Calcium | 25mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American / European
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1–2 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers thinly and salt lightly. Rest 10–15 minutes.
- Pat dry and place in a bowl.
- Add onions and dill.
- Whisk vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour over the salad and toss.
- Chill before serving.
Notes
- For a creamy variation, swap dressing for yogurt or sour cream.
- Add cherry tomatoes or feta for extra flavor.
Diet Tags
- Gluten-free
- Vegetarian
- Vegan-friendly (without honey)
- Low-calorie
- Heart-healthy
Health Benefits
- Cucumbers help with hydration and digestion.
- Dill offers antioxidants and supports digestion.
- Onions add vitamins and natural compounds that support immunity.
- Light dressing keeps calories low while adding flavor.
FAQs
1. How do I keep cucumber salad from getting watery?
Salt cucumbers first, then pat dry before dressing.
2. Can I make cucumber salad the day before?
Yes, but keep dressing separate for the best texture.
3. What cucumbers work best?
English and Persian cucumbers are crisp and less seedy.
4. Can I make it creamy instead of tangy?
Yes—use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayonnaise as a base.
5. How long does cucumber salad last?
Up to 2 days refrigerated, though it’s best fresh.
11. Final Thoughts
Cucumber Salad is one of those dishes that proves simple ingredients can create something truly refreshing. The crisp texture, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs make it a reliable choice for quick lunches, potlucks, or side dishes that brighten up any meal. Once you make it at home, it quickly becomes a go-to recipe you can adjust to your taste.
Give it a try and feel free to share how it turned out for you.