There’s something timeless and deeply satisfying about a cold, crisp cucumber salad. Light yet full of flavor, crunchy but infused with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory – it’s the kind of dish that feels like a breath of fresh air. This Marinated Cucumber Salad is a staple in many households around the world, and for good reason.
What sets this salad apart is its ability to transform a humble cucumber into something truly irresistible. Through the magic of marination, the cucumbers absorb the vinaigrette, resulting in a salad that’s brimming with flavor and incredibly refreshing.
The addition of red onion, a touch of vinegar, and subtle seasonings makes this dish more than just a side – it becomes the highlight of the table.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big flavor – everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- Incredibly refreshing and hydrating – perfect for summer or post-workout meals.
- Make-ahead friendly – actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.
- Low in calories and carbs – guilt-free indulgence!
- Versatile – works with almost any cuisine.
Why You Must Try It
This salad is a must-try because it redefines simplicity. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it delivers a punch of flavor and elegance. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, meal prepping for the week, or just want something light and vibrant, this salad hits all the right notes.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: Minimum 1 hour (overnight preferred)
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~60–70 calories
Ingredients
Salad:
- 2 large English cucumbers or 4 medium regular cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp salt (for drawing moisture)
Marinade:
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried dill or 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional but recommended)
- ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Directions
Step 1: Prep the cucumbers
- Thinly slice cucumbers using a knife or mandolin for even thickness.
- Place them in a colander or large bowl and sprinkle with 1 tsp salt.
- Toss gently and let sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess water.
- Rinse and gently pat dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Make the marinade
- In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the vinegar, sugar (or honey), olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, dill, and optional red pepper flakes until sugar is dissolved.
Step 3: Combine and marinate
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers and sliced red onions.
- Pour the marinade over the top and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor.
Step 4: Serve
- Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add a bit more vinegar or sugar if desired).
Tips & Variations
Tips:
- Use seedless cucumbers like English or Persian for the best texture.
- Slice cucumbers thinly to absorb more marinade quickly.
- For a stronger flavor, let marinate for 24 hours in the fridge.
- Drain excess liquid before serving for a more intense flavor.
Variations:
- Add cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, or sliced radishes.
- Mix in fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro.
- Use rice vinegar for a milder flavor, or balsamic vinegar for a deeper, sweeter taste.
- Swap sugar for maple syrup or a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
- Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or barbecue cookouts.
- Use in sandwiches or wraps for added crunch and brightness.
- Pair with rich dishes like creamy pasta or spicy curry to balance flavors.
Conclusion
This Marinated Cucumber Salad is more than just a side – it’s a cooling, flavor-packed companion to almost any meal. It’s the kind of dish that impresses with its elegance, despite being effortless to prepare. With its tangy, sweet, and refreshing profile, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
So the next time you spot a few cucumbers in your fridge, don’t just toss them into a boring salad – marinate them and let the magic happen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes best after at least 4–24 hours of marination in the fridge.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Q: Can I skip the sugar or use a sugar alternative?
A: Yes, feel free to use honey, maple syrup, or a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
Q: My cucumbers got watery. What should I do?
A: That’s normal. You can drain some liquid before serving or let them sit in a colander before marinating to remove excess moisture.
Q: Can I use white onions instead of red?
A: Yes, though red onions add both flavor and color. You can also use shallots for a milder taste.
Q: Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use plant-based sweeteners like sugar or maple syrup.
