Perfect Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe in 15 Minutes

Here's a refreshing, 15-minute cucumber and onion salad recipe with crisp vegetables, a tangy vinegar dressing, and just the right balance of sweetness and acidity. This classic side dish serves 4, requires only 6 ingredients, and stays fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored.

Nothing beats a perfectly balanced cucumber and onion salad on a warm day. As a chef who's taught thousands of home cooks how to maximize flavor from simple ingredients, I've perfected this recipe through years of testing different vinegar ratios, slicing techniques, and seasoning approaches. The magic happens when cool, crisp cucumbers meet thinly sliced onions in a dressing that enhances rather than overwhelms their natural flavors.

Why This Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe Works

Most cucumber salad recipes either drown the vegetables in dressing or fail to properly draw out excess moisture. This version solves both problems with a professional chef's technique: salting the cucumbers first. This simple step removes water that would otherwise dilute your dressing, resulting in a crisper texture and more vibrant flavor throughout.

Nutritional Value (per serving)	Amount
Calories	42
Total Fat	0.3g
Carbohydrates	9g
Dietary Fiber	1.5g
Sugar	5g
Protein	1.2g

Nutrition information calculated using USDA FoodData Central database. Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cucumber Salad

The beauty of this simple salad lies in ingredient quality and proper preparation. Here's what you'll need and why each component matters:

• 2 large English cucumbers (about 1 lb) - English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin than regular varieties, making them ideal for raw salads without peeling
• 1 medium red onion - Red onions provide vibrant color and a milder flavor than yellow onions when sliced thin and soaked
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt - Essential for drawing out excess cucumber moisture (use half amount if using table salt)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - Provides bright acidity with subtle fruit notes that complement cucumbers better than harsher vinegars
• 1½ tablespoons sugar - Balances the vinegar's acidity; honey works as a natural alternative
• ½ teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh) - Adds herbal complexity without overpowering the delicate vegetables

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these professional techniques for the crispest, most flavorful cucumber salad:

1. Prepare the cucumbers: Slice cucumbers into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place in a colander, toss with 1 teaspoon salt, and let drain over a bowl for 20 minutes. This critical step removes excess water that would dilute your dressing.
2. Soak the onions: Thinly slice red onion and place in a small bowl of ice water for 10 minutes. This reduces sharpness while maintaining crisp texture.
3. Create the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and dill until sugar dissolves completely.
4. Combine ingredients: Gently squeeze excess liquid from cucumbers (don't skip this!), then add to dressing along with drained onions. Toss carefully to coat.
5. Rest and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. For best texture, don't dress more than 2 hours before serving.

Practical Variations and Customizations

Adapt this basic recipe to match your taste preferences or what's in your pantry:

• Herb variations: Try fresh mint or parsley instead of dill for a different flavor profile
• Creamy version: Add 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt to the dressing for a richer texture
• Crunch factor: Include ¼ cup thinly sliced radishes for additional color and texture
• Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the dressing for subtle heat
• Mediterranean style: Include ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives

When This Salad Works Best (And When It Doesn't)

Understanding the context boundaries for this simple salad ensures perfect results every time:

• Ideal for: Summer picnics, BBQ side dishes, light lunches, or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats
• Best served: Within 2 hours of dressing for maximum crispness (though it stays edible for up to 3 days)
• Avoid making ahead: More than 4 hours before serving if you prefer crisp cucumbers (they'll soften over time)
• Not recommended: As a make-ahead dish for potlucks where it will sit at room temperature for extended periods

Storage and Serving Tips

Maximize freshness and flavor with these professional recommendations:

• Store undressed cucumbers and onions separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days
• Once dressed, keep salad in a glass container (not metal) to prevent flavor transfer
• Place a paper towel on top of the salad before sealing to absorb excess moisture
• Serve chilled but not ice-cold - remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving for best flavor
• Revive leftovers by draining excess liquid and adding a splash of fresh vinegar

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most common questions about making cucumber and onion salad:

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, but you'll need to peel and seed regular cucumbers first. English cucumbers have thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them ideal for raw salads without additional preparation. If using regular cucumbers, slice them in half lengthwise, scrape out the seeds with a spoon, and remove the thicker skin for best results.

How can I prevent my cucumber salad from becoming watery?

The key to preventing watery salad is salting the cucumbers first. After slicing, toss with salt and let drain in a colander for 20 minutes, then gently squeeze out excess liquid. This draws out moisture that would otherwise dilute your dressing. Also, store dressed salad with a paper towel on top to absorb any additional liquid that releases over time.

What's the best vinegar for cucumber salad?

Apple cider vinegar provides the ideal balance of acidity and subtle fruit notes that complement cucumbers without overpowering them. White wine vinegar works as a good alternative. Avoid harsh vinegars like distilled white vinegar which can make the salad taste too sharp. For a more complex flavor, try a combination of 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar.

How long does cucumber salad stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container with a paper towel on top to absorb moisture, cucumber salad stays fresh for 2-3 days. The cucumbers will gradually soften over time, so for best texture, consume within 24 hours. Never leave cucumber salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to food safety concerns with cut vegetables.