Summer calls for dishes that are crisp, hydrating, and effortless. But with so many side options packed with heavy dressings and hidden calories, how do you find one that’s light, refreshing, and still bursting with flavor?
Craving a light, refreshing side dish? This Simple Cucumber Onion Salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep. Try it today! Made with fresh ingredients and a zesty vinaigrette, this crowd favorite comes together in minutes and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re entertaining, prepping lunches, or just putting together a quick weeknight dinner, this salad hits all the right notes—health-wise and taste-wise.
Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your warm-weather meal rotation.
Ingredients List
This salad brings together minimal, wholesome ingredients, each delivering a clean flavor and hydrating crunch.
- 2 large English cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- 1 large red onion (sliced into half-moons)
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a fruitier flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped – or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional for balance)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
🧅 Ingredient Tips:
- Swap red onion with sweet Vidalia for a milder taste.
- Use rice vinegar for a Japanese twist on flavor.
- Add thin-sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes for more texture and color.
Crunchy, cool cucumbers soaked in tangy vinaigrette meet the zip of fresh onions—light but flavorful.
Timing
We know your time is valuable—especially in the summer.
- ⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes
- 🕓 Marinating Time (optional but recommended): 20–30 minutes
- ⏳ Total Time: 10–40 minutes
That’s up to 30% less time than more complex summer salads like pasta or grain bowls. Plus, no cooking needed!
Whether you’re pulling it together just before dinner or letting it chill while you fire up the grill, this salad is as quick as it is easy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Slice Your Veggies Thin
Thin cucumber and onion slices ensure better flavor absorption. A mandoline slicer offers consistent thickness if you have one.
🛠️ Tip: If using regular cucumbers, peel and de-seed for the best texture. For red onions, soak sliced pieces in cold water for 5 minutes before tossing to reduce the bite.
Step 2: Whisk the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar, olive oil, dill, sugar, salt, and pepper.
🎯 Personal Tip: Taste the vinaigrette before adding to the veggies. Add a pinch of sugar if the onions are extra sharp or if you prefer a milder tang.
Step 3: Combine and Mix
Place cucumbers and onions in a large bowl and pour the vinaigrette over them. Use clean hands or tongs to toss gently—ensure all slices are coated.
💡 Trick: Massage lightly while tossing to soften the onions and let the flavors meld quickly.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
Let the salad sit for at least 20 minutes in the fridge—or up to 2 hours if you want deeper flavor infusion.
⏳ Hack: Making the salad 24 hours ahead only enhances flavor depth. Store in an airtight container in the coldest section of the fridge.
Nutritional Information
Per 1-cup serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
🌱 Health Benefits:
- Cucumbers are 95% water—great for staying hydrated.
- Onions contain antioxidant compounds linked to reduced inflammation and cholesterol levels.
- Olive oil provides heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
According to USDA databases, swapping creamy dressing for vinaigrette cuts calorie density by 60%—making this salad ideal for weight-conscious eaters.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to tailor this dish to your dietary needs? Try these swaps:
- For a keto version: Skip the sugar entirely and use erythritol or a drop of stevia.
- Low-sodium diet? Use herb-infused vinaigrette with minimal or no salt.
- Vinegar-free option? Try lemon juice and a pinch of sumac for tang.
- Add plant-based protein by tossing in chickpeas or hemp seeds.
🥒 Customization Tip: For probiotic benefits, add a tablespoon of fermented pickled onion or kimchi brine.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile enough to pair with almost anything. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Pair with grilled meats or veggie burgers at a summer BBQ.
- Add to a picnic spread with sandwiches and fruit salad.
- Use as a crunchy topping for grain bowls or tacos.
- Serve it as a detox side with grilled salmon or tofu.
🎉 Hosting Tip: Serve in mason jars for an Instagram-able presentation guests will love—picnic-perfect and portion-controlled!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s keep this refreshingly simple salad fail-proof. Watch out for these mishaps:
- Slicing vegetables too thick – makes absorbing flavor difficult.
- Over-marinating – longer than 24 hours can make cucumbers soggy.
- Using bitter cucumbers – taste and peel if needed, or opt for English or Persian cucumbers.
- Not balancing acidity – always taste test your vinaigrette, especially when tweaking vinegar types.
- Skipping soak for onions – if too pungent, they can overpower the dish.
🔧 Fix: If you’ve accidentally added too much vinegar, balance with a teaspoon of honey or sugar.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This salad is a perfect make-ahead option.
- Storage: Store in an airtight glass container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Avoid freezing—it affects texture and flavor.
- For longer freshness, store cucumbers and onions separately and mix them with the vinaigrette just before serving.
💡 Meal Prep Idea: Make a double batch and portion into containers with grains or proteins for grab-and-go weekday lunches.
Conclusion
In a season where light, refreshing meals are a must, this Simple Cucumber Onion Salad checks every box: quick to prep, full of flavor, and easy on the waistline. Craving a light, refreshing side dish? This Simple Cucumber Onion Salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep. Try it today and taste why it’s a warm-weather favorite!
📌 Ready to try it today? Let us know how it turns out in the comments or tag us in your photos @FreshBiteBlog on Instagram. Want more summer-ready sides? Check out our Healthy Quinoa Avocado Salad or Lemon Garlic Grilled Veggies.
Stay cool, stay fresh, and eat well. 🥗
FAQs
❓ Can I use other types of onion?
Yes! Swap red onions with white or sweet onions for a milder or sweeter flavor profile.
❓ How long can I store this salad?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. For best texture, enjoy it within the first 24–48 hours.
❓ Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely! It’s both vegan and naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any vinegar brand for additives or gluten-based preservatives.
❓ Can I make it ahead?
Yes! In fact, making it a few hours ahead enhances the flavor. Just keep it chilled and well-covered.
❓ What proteins pair well with this?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, chickpeas, or even a fried egg on top makes it a light yet protein-packed meal.