Classic Cucumber and Onion Salad

Classic Cucumber and Onion Salad is a crisp, refreshing side dish made with thinly sliced cucumbers and onions marinated in a light, tangy vinegar dressing. With no oil and minimal sugar, this low-calorie and flavorful salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or rich dishes. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time—making it a timeless, go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

½ cup distilled white vinegar
¼ cup water
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced (about 1 pound)
½ red or sweet onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons minced fresh dill

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar and salt are mostly dissolved.
Add the sliced cucumber and onion to the bowl. Stir well to coat with the dressing.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes, stirring once or twice during the marinating time.
When ready to serve, drain the liquid from the cucumbers and onions.
Stir in the fresh dill.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Nutrients (per serving)

Calories: 42 kcal
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 1 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Sodium: 878 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 6 g
Vitamin A: 95 IU
Vitamin C: 4 mg
Calcium: 24 mg
Iron: 1 mg

A Bit of History

Cucumber salads have roots in many parts of the world. From German Gurkensalat to Korean Oi Muchim, cucumbers have long been a central ingredient in refreshing, vinegar-based salads. The combination of cucumbers and onions in a lightly sweetened vinegar brine has become particularly common in American home cooking, especially throughout the South and Midwest.

In the U.S., this style of cucumber salad began gaining popularity in the early 20th century, when home preserving and pickling became widespread. Cucumber and onion salad offered an easy way to preserve the freshness of the garden harvest just a bit longer. Over the years, it evolved from a preserving method into a standard cold salad served at potlucks, picnics, and cookouts.

Flavor and Texture Profile

The beauty of this salad lies in the balance of its flavors and textures:

Crispness: The cucumbers—especially when sliced thin—retain their crunch even after marinating. English cucumbers are ideal here, offering a tender skin and fewer seeds, but any cucumber will work.
Sharpness and sweetness: The onion brings a mild bite, tempered by the slight sweetness of the sugar and the acidity of the vinegar. Red onions offer a vibrant color and milder flavor, while sweet onions can give an even more subtle result.
Tang and depth: The vinegar-based dressing creates a refreshing tang, while the black pepper adds subtle heat and complexity. Fresh dill ties everything together with its herbaceous brightness.

Together, these elements create a dish that’s refreshing yet robust enough to stand up to grilled or fried entrees.

A Versatile Companion to Any Meal

One of the key reasons for the enduring popularity of cucumber and onion salad is its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways and settings:

As a barbecue side: The crisp acidity of this salad is the perfect counterbalance to rich, smoky meats like ribs, brisket, or grilled sausages.
With sandwiches or wraps: Add it as a cooling element to spicy chicken sandwiches, pulled pork sliders, or even vegetarian wraps.
On a salad plate: Serve it alongside potato salad, baked beans, and coleslaw as part of a full picnic spread.
With spicy dishes: Its mild, tangy flavor can tame the heat of spicy curries or Mexican cuisine.
As a palate cleanser: The freshness of cucumbers can refresh your taste buds between bites of heartier dishes.

This dish is also adaptable. Don’t like dill? Try parsley or mint instead. Want more depth? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or thinly sliced garlic. Looking for color? Include radishes or cherry tomatoes for a more vibrant presentation.

Health Benefits

Aside from its great flavor, Classic Cucumber and Onion Salad is also a healthy choice. It’s low in calories and fat, and it’s hydrating thanks to the high water content of cucumbers. Here’s a closer look at some of its health benefits:

Hydration: Cucumbers are about 95% water, making this salad an excellent choice for hot days or when you’re trying to stay hydrated.
Low calorie: With fewer than 50 calories per serving, this salad is perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
Rich in vitamins and minerals: Cucumbers provide small amounts of Vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, while onions add Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Digestive support: The vinegar in the dressing, especially if using raw or unfiltered types like apple cider vinegar, may help aid digestion.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Both cucumbers and onions contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation in the body.
No added oils: Many salads use oil-based dressings, but this version skips the oil, making it a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

For those on specific diets—whether low-carb, vegan, gluten-free, or paleo—this salad can easily be a staple.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Another major advantage of this salad is how well it holds up in the fridge. In fact, many would argue that it tastes even better after a few hours—or even a full day—of marinating.

Here are some storage and prep tips:

Marinating time: Letting the salad chill for at least an hour is ideal. This allows the cucumbers and onions to absorb the flavors from the vinegar mixture.
Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay crisp and flavorful for 2 to 3 days.
Drain before serving: Draining the excess liquid before serving prevents the salad from becoming soggy and keeps the flavors more concentrated.
Make it in advance: This dish is perfect for meal prepping or making the night before a party or gathering. The flavors intensify over time, making it even more delicious.

Just be aware that after a few days, the cucumbers may start to lose their crunch. If you’re making it well ahead of time, consider slicing the cucumbers and onions and storing them dry, then adding the dressing an hour or two before serving.

Why It Belongs on Every Table

There’s something timeless about cucumber and onion salad. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds people of childhood dinners, church picnics, summer cookouts, and family gatherings. Its simplicity is part of the charm—made with ingredients you likely already have on hand, yet delivering a flavor that feels fresh and satisfying every time.

From a culinary perspective, it offers a masterclass in balance: sweet and sour, crisp and soft, bold and subtle. It can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and it’s one of those rare dishes that manages to be both comforting and revitalizing.

Conclusion

Classic Cucumber and Onion Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a refreshing tradition, a celebration of simplicity, and a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option, a nostalgic favorite, or just a fast and flavorful way to use up garden cucumbers, this salad delivers.

With its clean flavors, low calorie count, and make-ahead convenience, it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Try it once, and you’ll understand why so many home cooks return to it again and again. It’s proof that some of the best dishes don’t need to be complicated—they just need to be made with care.

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