Bright, crisp, and easy to make, this cucumber salad is a summer staple that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or a light lunch. I love sharing simple, fresh ideas in my 14 Best Cucumber Salad Recipes | Sugar&Cinnamon collection. For a creamy twist, try the creamy cucumber salad for a tangy, smooth variation.
Why You’ll Love This 14 Best Cucumber Salad Recipes | Sugar&Cinnamon
- Bright, refreshing flavor that pairs with many mains
- Ready in about 15–20 minutes for quick weeknight prep
- Great for meal prep and holds up well as leftovers
- Family-friendly and easy to customize for picky eaters
- Light, low-calorie option that still feels satisfying
Ingredients Needed
- Veggies
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Dressing
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for creamier salad)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Herbs & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, more to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or chopped fresh mint
- Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion; place in a large bowl.
- If cucumbers are watery, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, toss, and let sit 10 minutes, then drain any liquid.
- Whisk the vinegar, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour dressing over cucumbers and onions, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Chill at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld, then top with feta or mint before serving.
Serving Suggestions 14 Best Cucumber Salad Recipes | Sugar&Cinnamon
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs for a light plate.
- Spoon over greens to make a quick composed salad.
- Add sliced avocado and toasted nuts for extra richness.
- Pair with spicy mains to cool the palate, or enjoy with a corn dish like the street corn creamy cucumber chicken salad for a hearty summer meal.
- Present in a shallow bowl and garnish with dill sprigs for a pretty picnic dish.
Tips for Success 14 Best Cucumber Salad Recipes | Sugar&Cinnamon
- Slice cucumbers thin and uniform for even texture and quick marinating.
- If cucumbers release water, drain them to avoid a watery dressing.
- Chill before serving to let flavors combine and keep the salad crisp.
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and less bitterness.
- For a protein-packed picnic option, serve alongside a salad like the apple walnut chicken salad for an easy combo.
Variations
- Mediterranean: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and swap dill for oregano.
- Spicy: Stir in 1 tsp sriracha or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Dairy-free: Use extra olive oil and a splash more vinegar; omit sour cream.
- Protein boost: Toss in chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken for a main-course salad.
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Cucumber Salad
Bright, crisp, and easy to make, this cucumber salad is a perfect refreshing dish for summer dinners, picnics, or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 large large English cucumbers, thinly sliced About 6 cups when sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt For creamier salad
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Herbs & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped Or 1 tsp dried
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt More to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or chopped fresh mint
- pinch of red pepper flakes For heat
Instructions
Preparation
- Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion; place in a large bowl.
- If cucumbers are watery, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, toss, and let sit for 10 minutes, then drain any liquid.
- Whisk the vinegar, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour dressing over cucumbers and onions, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Chill at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld, then top with feta or mint before serving.
Notes
Slice cucumbers thin and uniform for even texture and quick marinating. Chill before serving to let flavors combine and keep the salad crisp. Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and less bitterness.