Cucumber Vinegar Salad: Refreshing Summer Side Dish

There’s something truly special about a refreshing side dish that not only complements any meal but also brings a burst of flavor to your table. Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my absolute favorites: a Cucumber Vinegar Salad that’s as simple as it is delicious. Perfect for those quick family dinners or as a light addition to your easy pasta recipes, this salad is a game-changer for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a 30-minute meal or just a fresh idea for your weeknight dinner ideas, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and tangy, with just the right balance of flavors
• Prep time is a breeze—ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a healthy snack
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences
• Make-ahead friendly, so you can chill it while you cook the rest of your meal

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Cucumber and Vinegar Salad recipe:

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this Cucumber Salad with Vinegar recipe:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves.
2. Slice cucumbers and red onion thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, and dill.
4. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cucumber in Vinegar salad turns out perfectly every time:

• For extra crispness, sprinkle the cucumber slices with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing and patting dry. This step helps draw out excess moisture.
• If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons. For a tangier version, reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon.
• Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• For a fresh twist, add some chopped fresh parsley or chives along with the dill for extra flavor.

How to Serve

This Cucumber Vinaigrette salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in multiple ways:

• As a side dish for grilled meats, fish, or poultry
• Alongside your favorite easy pasta recipes for a light and refreshing contrast
• As a topping for burgers or sandwiches
• As part of a picnic or potluck spread

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this Cucumber and Vinegar salad is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The longer it chills, the more the flavors will develop. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will release some liquid as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving.

Looking for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes? Check out our collection of Cucumber Vinegar Salad: Refreshing Summer Side Dish for more inspiration!