Print

Fresh Tangy Cucumber Onion Salad with Dill

fresh tangy cucumber onion salad - featured image

A crisp and refreshing cucumber and onion salad with fresh dill, tangy vinegar, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a simple, quick side dish for warm weather meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers preferred)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar (distilled or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey/maple syrup as substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Use a sharp knife to thinly slice 2 medium cucumbers and 1 small red onion to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  2. Place the cucumber and onion slices in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, toss gently, and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. Drain any liquid and gently pat the vegetables dry with a paper towel.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using) until sugar dissolves.
  5. Add the cucumbers and onions back to the bowl, sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill over them, then pour the dressing on top. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and onions to soften slightly.
  7. Before serving, toss the salad again and adjust seasoning with additional salt or sugar if needed.

Notes

Salting the cucumbers and onions is essential to avoid a watery salad and to mellow the onion’s sharpness. Letting the salad rest for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor. Use fresh dill for best taste. Olive oil is optional and adds richness. Adjust vinegar and sugar to taste. For less sodium, reduce salt and rinse vegetables before dressing. Variations include adding radishes, bell peppers, or substituting herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, onion salad, dill salad, tangy salad, summer side dish, easy salad, quick salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad