This Quick & Tangy Cucumber & Red Onion Salad is the kind of refreshing side dish you can make in minutes. Thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion soak in a sweet‑tart apple cider vinegar dressing, creating a crunchy, chilled salad that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or anything you’re serving on a warm day. It’s simple, nostalgic, and endlessly useful.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber & Red Onion Salad Recipe:
- Fast and foolproof — just slice, whisk, pour, and chill.
- Light, crisp, and refreshing — perfect for summer meals or meal prep.
- Budget‑friendly ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Make‑ahead friendly — the flavors get even better after a short rest.
Ingredients:
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced thinly
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Add the thinly sliced cucumber and red onion to a medium bowl.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours.
4. When ready to serve, drain off the excess liquid and enjoy chilled.
Quick & Tangy Cucumber & Red Onion Salad
EQUIPMENT (Amazon Associate Links)
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber sliced thinly
- 1/2 medium red onion sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Add the thinly sliced cucumber and red onion to a medium bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours.
- When ready to serve, drain off the excess liquid and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Add herbs: Fresh dill or parsley adds a lovely pop.
- Make it savory: Reduce the sugar to 1–2 Tbsp for a sharper, more pickle‑like flavor.
- Use regular cucumbers: Just peel and seed them for the best texture.
- Add heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick
Tips & Variations
- Add herbs: Fresh dill or parsley adds a lovely pop.
- Make it savory: Reduce the sugar to 1–2 Tbsp for a sharper, more pickle‑like flavor.
- Use regular cucumbers: Just peel and seed them for the best texture.
- Add heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick
Cucumber & Red Onion Salad FAQ’s:
Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes — it actually gets better after resting. Just keep it chilled and drain before serving.
Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
You can. The flavor will be slightly sharper, but still delicious.
Do I need to peel the cucumber?
If using an English cucumber, no. If using a standard cucumber, peeling and seeding improves texture.
How long does this salad keep?
It’s best within 24 hours, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely. Reduce to 1–2 tablespoons for a more savory, pickle‑like flavor
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