Cucumber Onion Salad

Refreshing Cucumber Onion Salad

In the midst of summer, the quest for refreshing dishes leads us to the humble yet vibrant cucumber. Today, I’m excited to share a simple recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a zesty and refreshing side dish: Cucumber Onion Salad. This salad is not only light and hydrating but also flavorful, making it a perfect companion for any barbecue or a sunny picnic day.

Ingredients

• 2 long English cucumbers
• ½ sweet white onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Marinade

• ⅓ cup white vinegar or cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or light olive oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the Produce: Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds a nice texture and color to the salad. Thinly slice the cucumbers and the half onion. A mandoline works best for consistent, thin slices, but a sharp knife will also do the job.
2. Mix the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, water, and sugar until the sugar completely dissolves. This mixture will form the base of your marinade, infusing the vegetables with a bright, tangy flavor.
3. Combine and Chill: Add the sliced cucumbers and onions to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything well to ensure the slices are evenly coated. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours if time allows. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Finish with Herbs: Just before serving, toss the salad with fresh chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. The dill adds a fresh, herby layer that complements the tanginess of the marinade.

Notes

• Storage: Keep the cucumber onion salad in a covered container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2-3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the flavors.
• Dill Substitute: If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use 2 teaspoons of dried dill weed. Add it directly to the dressing so it can hydrate and release its flavors during the marinating process.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1-4 hours
• Total Time: Up to 4 hours 10 minutes
• Calories: 50 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Cucumber Onion Salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. The crispiness of the cucumber, the sharpness of the onion, and the aromatic dill make this dish a delightful treat. Whether it’s alongside a grilled feast or as a standalone snack, it promises to refresh and invigorate. Enjoy this burst of freshness on any hot summer day!