Name: Cucumber Vinegar Salad: The Perfect Refreshing Summer Side
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Cucumbers (peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced); 1/4 cup White Wine Vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin preferred); 1 tablespoon Sugar (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Salt (for seasoning); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 small Red Onion (optional, thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (optional, chopped); 1 cup Chopped Bell Peppers; 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes

As I sat on my porch basking in the warm sun, it hit me—there’s nothing like a refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad to encapsulate the essence of summer. Crisp cucumbers, kissed by the sweet tang of vinegar and a drizzle of rich olive oil, come together to create a dish that is not only vibrant but also incredibly easy to whip up. This salad is a true hero for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend gatherings, effortlessly elevating any meal. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to play with ingredients or swap out herbs to suit your palate. Ready to dive into a summer classic that will leave your taste buds dancing? Let’s get started!

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll love how effortlessly this Cucumber Vinegar Salad comes together in minutes, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners.

Versatile Flavor Profile: With the option to customize vinegars and herbs, this salad adapts beautifully to suit any palate, just like our refreshing Macaroni Salad Summer.

Bursting with Freshness: The combination of crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing ensures each bite is a refreshing delight, reminiscent of summer picnics.

Budget-Friendly Appeal: Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s easy on your wallet while providing a nutrient-rich boost to every meal.

Perfect Side for Any Occasion: Whether serving alongside grilled meats or at a large gathering, this salad shines as a stunning accompaniment, just like the popular Roasted Pear Salad.

Cucumber Vinegar Salad Ingredients

To prepare this delicious and refreshing summer salad, gather the following ingredients!

For the Salad

Cucumbers – Use peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced cucumbers for the best crunch and fresh taste.
White Wine Vinegar – Adds a lovely tang; apple cider vinegar can be a wonderful substitution.
Olive Oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the dressing beautifully.
Sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar; adjust to taste for extra sweetness if desired.
Salt – Essential for drawing out cucumber moisture and enhancing overall flavors.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds a slight heat and depth to the dressing.
Red Onion – Optional, but adds a sharp contrast; consider shallots for a milder flavor.
Fresh Dill – Optional for an herbal note; swap for fresh mint or parsley to mix things up.

For Extra Color and Flavor

Chopped Bell Peppers – Add for a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
Cherry Tomatoes – Consider adding these for a pop of sweetness and visual appeal.

Try this Cucumber Vinegar Salad recipe for a refreshing side that beautifully brightens up any meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cucumber Vinegar Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Begin by washing and peeling the cucumbers. Slice them thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes; this process draws out excess moisture, resulting in a perfectly crunchy Cucumber Vinegar Salad.

Step 2: Drain the Cucumbers
After the cucumbers have released their moisture, transfer them to a colander set over the sink. Gently squeeze the cucumbers with your hands to eliminate any remaining liquid, ensuring the salad remains crisp. Once drained, return the cucumbers to the mixing bowl, ready to absorb the flavorful dressing.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine the white wine vinegar, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a smooth and tangy dressing. This dressing will infuse the Cucumber Vinegar Salad with a delightful balance of flavors.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the prepared dressing over the drained cucumbers in the mixing bowl. If desired, add thinly sliced red onion and freshly chopped dill or your choice of herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Gently toss the ingredients together until the cucumbers are fully coated with the dressing, ensuring a perfect blend.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and enhance the overall taste of your Cucumber Vinegar Salad. This chilling step adds refreshing vibrancy to each bite when served.

Cucumber Vinegar Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to embrace your culinary creativity with these variations and substitutions that make this salad even more delightful!

Dairy-Free: Swap out any creamy additions with a dash of vinegar to keep the dressing bright and tangy.
Vinegar Variety: Experiment with rice vinegar for a milder flavor or balsamic for a richer taste profile. Each brings its unique twist!
Fresh Herb Swap: Replace dill with fresh mint or parsley to refresh the salad’s flavor while echoing the vibrant tastes of summer.
Sweet Addition: Toss in a handful of ripe cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color, making the salad even more pleasing to the eye.
Crunch Boost: Add chopped bell peppers for a delightful crunch. Their vibrant colors will enhance the salad’s visual appeal!
Heat Factor: Want a little kick? Mix in some thinly sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level to your preference.
Nutty Flavor: Introduce toasted sesame oil instead of olive oil for a unique, nutty twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Crispy Texture: Top the salad with sliced almonds or walnuts for added texture and a satisfying crunch, reminiscent of a lovely summer picnic.

Embrace these variations to customize your Cucumber Vinegar Salad! Pair it with hearty main dishes or serve it alongside lighter fare like our Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad to create an unforgettable meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Cucumber Vinegar Salad is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can slice the cucumbers, sprinkle them with salt, and let them sit for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the cucumbers to release moisture, resulting in the ideal crunch. To maintain quality, drain the cucumbers and prepare the dressing (combining vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and black pepper) before serving. Store the dressing separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine the cucumbers with the dressing and any additional herbs right before serving, ensuring your salad remains just as refreshing and vibrant.

Expert Tips for Cucumber Vinegar Salad

Choose the Right Cucumbers: Use firm, fresh cucumbers to avoid watery results. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Don’t Skimp on Salting: Properly salting your cucumbers helps draw out extra moisture, ensuring a crunchier Cucumber Vinegar Salad that won’t become soggy.
Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall flavor.
Experiment with Vinegars: Feel free to tweak the recipe by using different vinegars, such as balsamic for sweetness or rice vinegar for a milder taste.
Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley not only enhance flavor but also elevate the visual appeal of your Cucumber Vinegar Salad.

What to Serve with Cucumber Vinegar Salad

As you whip up this refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad, consider these delightful pairings that will create a harmonious summer meal.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and flavorful, these skewers balance the salad’s refreshing crunch, making for a satisfying duo at any gathering.
Quinoa Salad: The nutty taste of quinoa adds a hearty texture, complementing the lightness of cucumber, perfect for a wholesome meal.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The savory richness of shrimp sautéed in garlic butter contrasts beautifully with the bright tanginess of the salad, creating an exciting flavor experience.
Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, golden potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs provide a delightful crunch and comfort, enhancing your dining experience alongside the cucumber salad.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A vibrant array of seasonal fruits, like watermelon and berries, adds a sweet and juicy contrast, rounding out the meal with a refreshing finish.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Riesling perfectly complements the salad’s bright flavors, making it a refreshing pairing for hot days.
Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, this icy treat refreshes the palate and brings a delightful citrusy finish that echoes the salad’s vibrant notes.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add depth and smokiness, pairing beautifully with the fresh crunch of cucumber.

How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Vinegar Salad

Fridge: Keep the Cucumber Vinegar Salad covered in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits!

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Cucumber Vinegar Salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially on warm days, to maintain freshness and safety.

Make-Ahead Tip: If you plan to serve the salad later, prepare it a day in advance. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the dressing and enjoy!

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze Cucumber Vinegar Salad, as cucumbers lose their crispness and texture when thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best flavor experience!

Cucumber Vinegar Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cucumbers for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for firm, fresh cucumbers with smooth skin. English cucumbers are a great choice since they have fewer seeds and are less watery. Avoid any cucumbers with dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cucumber Vinegar Salad?
Store your Cucumber Vinegar Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best consumed fresh, but the flavors will continue to develop and deepen as it sits. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the dressing.

Can I freeze Cucumber Vinegar Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as cucumbers lose their crunchy texture once thawed. Instead, enjoy the salad fresh for the best flavor and experience. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can make it a day before and refrigerate.

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
If allergies are a concern, ensure any added ingredients, like red onion or herbs, are safe for those consuming the salad. For those with certain diets, the salad is gluten-free, and you can substitute sugar with a natural sweetener if desired, making it adaptable for different dietary needs.

What should I do if my salad seems watery?
No worries! This usually happens if the cucumbers weren’t properly salted or drained. Make sure to sprinkle salt on the cucumbers and let them sit to draw out moisture, then drain thoroughly before mixing with the dressing. For an even crunchier result, consider using paper towels to absorb any excess liquid.