Cucumber Salad Recipe: A Crisp, Cool Classic for Every Occasion
Cucumber salad — light, crisp, and refreshing — is one of those dishes that transcends seasons, cuisines, and mealtimes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side at a summer barbecue, a palate cleanser in a spicy Thai meal, or a quick lunch on a warm day, cucumber salad delivers flavor with a fresh, cooling crunch that never disappoints.
At its core, cucumber salad is incredibly simple: sliced cucumbers, a bright dressing, and often a few herbs or vegetables for texture and flavor. But within that simplicity lies the magic. This dish can be creamy, tangy, sweet, spicy, or savory, depending on how you prepare it.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect classic cucumber salad, plus variations from around the world, storage tips, nutritional benefits, and clever ideas to take it to the next level.
Why Cucumber Salad?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s explore why cucumber salad deserves a place in your regular rotation.
1. Quick and Easy
With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, this salad comes together in minutes.
2. Healthy
Low in calories, hydrating, and rich in fiber, cucumbers are ideal for a clean, fresh side dish.
3. Versatile
It pairs well with a wide range of mains — from grilled meat to rice dishes, sandwiches, curries, or tofu stir-fries.
4. Customizable
You can make it spicy, sweet, tangy, creamy, or crunchy — whatever suits your taste.
Classic Cucumber Salad Recipe
Let’s start with the classic version — crisp cucumber slices tossed in a light vinegar dressing, sweetened just slightly and brightened with fresh herbs.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🧊 Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
🍽 Serves: 4
Ingredients:
-
2 large English cucumbers or 5–6 small Persian cucumbers
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
-
¼ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
-
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or parsley if preferred)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thickness.
Tip: If you’re using large cucumbers with thick skin or large seeds, peel them and remove seeds for a better texture.
Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat, then let sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, which prevents your salad from becoming watery.
After resting, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
-
Vinegar
-
Sugar or honey
-
Olive oil
-
Dijon mustard (if using)
-
Black pepper
Taste and adjust to your liking — add more vinegar for tang, or more sugar for sweetness.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
-
Drained cucumber slices
-
Thinly sliced red onion
-
Chopped fresh dill
Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Chill and Serve
For best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition at a Glance (per serving)
-
Calories: ~80
-
Protein: 1g
-
Carbohydrates: 10g
-
Fat: 4g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sugar: 5g
-
Sodium: varies with added salt
This salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It can be made vegan by using plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup or agave.
Cucumber Salad Variations from Around the World
The classic cucumber salad is just the beginning. Let’s explore global takes on this refreshing dish:
🥒 1. Thai Cucumber Salad (Ajad)
A spicy, sweet, and tangy version with Southeast Asian flair.
Ingredients:
-
Sliced cucumbers
-
Red onion
-
Fresh red chilies
-
Chopped peanuts
-
Rice vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Fish sauce or soy sauce
-
Cilantro
Flavor Profile: Spicy, sweet, and tangy with crunchy peanuts on top.
🥒 2. German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)
A creamy version made with sour cream or yogurt.
Ingredients:
-
Cucumbers
-
Onion
-
Dill
-
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
Vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Salt & Pepper
Flavor Profile: Mild and creamy with hints of vinegar and herbs — perfect with schnitzel or sausages.
🥒 3. Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
A punchy, fiery salad served as a banchan (side dish).
Ingredients:
-
Cucumbers
-
Garlic
-
Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
-
Soy sauce
-
Vinegar
-
Sesame oil
-
Sugar
-
Sesame seeds
Flavor Profile: Spicy, garlicky, umami-rich with toasted sesame.
🥒 4. Japanese Cucumber Sunomono
A minimalist vinegar-dressed cucumber dish often served with seafood.
Ingredients:
-
Thinly sliced cucumber
-
Rice vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Salt
-
Wakame seaweed (optional)
-
Toasted sesame seeds
Flavor Profile: Delicate, lightly sweet and sour, great as a light starter.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad Every Time
✅ Use Fresh Cucumbers
Choose firm, unwaxed cucumbers for best results. English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and low seed content.
✅ Slice Evenly
Uniform slices ensure even marination and a pleasing texture.
✅ Salt Before Dressing
Drawing out water prevents the salad from turning watery and keeps it crisp.
✅ Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad rest in the fridge enhances the flavor and provides that refreshing quality.
✅ Don’t Overdo the Dressing
Cucumbers release water over time, so you don’t need much dressing. Add just enough to coat.
How to Store Leftover Cucumber Salad
Homemade cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
✅ Do:
-
Store in a glass container for best freshness.
-
Use tongs to serve to avoid introducing moisture or bacteria.
❌ Don’t:
-
Freeze cucumber salad — cucumbers become mushy after thawing.
-
Leave out at room temperature for extended periods.
What to Serve with Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a flexible side dish that goes well with many meals. Here are a few delicious pairings:
-
Grilled meats (chicken, pork, lamb)
-
Roasted salmon or grilled fish
-
Rice bowls or grain salads
-
Spicy foods (curry, jerk chicken, kimchi rice)
-
Sandwiches and wraps
-
Falafel or hummus platters
-
BBQ skewers or burgers
Creative Add-Ins and Upgrades
Want to elevate your cucumber salad even further? Try these ideas:
-
Avocado: Add creamy diced avocado for richness.
-
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds saltiness and tang.
-
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy — great in summer salads.
-
Radishes: For peppery crunch and color.
-
Pomegranate seeds: A pop of sweet-tart flavor.
-
Mint or basil: Use instead of dill for a fresh twist.
-
Pickled onions: Adds zing and color.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers
Besides being delicious and versatile, cucumbers come with plenty of health benefits:
🥒 Hydration
Cucumbers are about 95% water, making them excellent for staying hydrated.
🥒 Low in Calories
Ideal for low-calorie diets without sacrificing satisfaction.
🥒 Rich in Antioxidants
Contain compounds like cucurbitacins and flavonoids that fight inflammation.
🥒 Supports Skin Health
Silica and water content promote skin elasticity and hydration.
🥒 Digestive Aid
The fiber content, especially in the peel, supports healthy digestion.
Make It a Meal
Turn your cucumber salad into a full meal by adding:
-
Grilled shrimp or tofu
-
A scoop of quinoa, couscous, or chickpeas
-
Boiled eggs for protein
-
A dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess
Conclusion: Crisp Simplicity, Global Appeal
Cucumber salad is more than a humble side dish — it's a canvas for creativity, a way to celebrate fresh ingredients, and a timeless staple in cuisines across the globe. With minimal prep, affordable ingredients, and countless variations, this dish can adapt to almost any meal or mood.
Whether you're making a classic vinegar-dressed version, a creamy German variation, or a spicy Korean twist, cucumber salad is always cool, crunchy, and full of flavor.
So grab a cucumber or two, slice them up, and let this simple recipe bring a burst of freshness to your table.
Cucumber Salad Recipe: A Crisp, Cool Classic for Every Occasion
Cucumber salad — light, crisp, and refreshing — is one of those dishes that transcends seasons, cuisines, and mealtimes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side at a summer barbecue, a palate cleanser in a spicy Thai meal, or a quick lunch on a warm day, cucumber salad delivers flavor with a fresh, cooling crunch that never disappoints.
At its core, cucumber salad is incredibly simple: sliced cucumbers, a bright dressing, and often a few herbs or vegetables for texture and flavor. But within that simplicity lies the magic. This dish can be creamy, tangy, sweet, spicy, or savory, depending on how you prepare it.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect classic cucumber salad, plus variations from around the world, storage tips, nutritional benefits, and clever ideas to take it to the next level.
Why Cucumber Salad?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s explore why cucumber salad deserves a place in your regular rotation.
1. Quick and Easy
With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, this salad comes together in minutes.
2. Healthy
Low in calories, hydrating, and rich in fiber, cucumbers are ideal for a clean, fresh side dish.
3. Versatile
It pairs well with a wide range of mains — from grilled meat to rice dishes, sandwiches, curries, or tofu stir-fries.
4. Customizable
You can make it spicy, sweet, tangy, creamy, or crunchy — whatever suits your taste.
Classic Cucumber Salad Recipe
Let’s start with the classic version — crisp cucumber slices tossed in a light vinegar dressing, sweetened just slightly and brightened with fresh herbs.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🧊 Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
🍽 Serves: 4
Ingredients:
-
2 large English cucumbers or 5–6 small Persian cucumbers
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
-
¼ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
-
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or parsley if preferred)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thickness.
Tip: If you’re using large cucumbers with thick skin or large seeds, peel them and remove seeds for a better texture.
Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat, then let sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, which prevents your salad from becoming watery.
After resting, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
-
Vinegar
-
Sugar or honey
-
Olive oil
-
Dijon mustard (if using)
-
Black pepper
Taste and adjust to your liking — add more vinegar for tang, or more sugar for sweetness.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
-
Drained cucumber slices
-
Thinly sliced red onion
-
Chopped fresh dill
Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Chill and Serve
For best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition at a Glance (per serving)
-
Calories: ~80
-
Protein: 1g
-
Carbohydrates: 10g
-
Fat: 4g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sugar: 5g
-
Sodium: varies with added salt
This salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It can be made vegan by using plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup or agave.
Cucumber Salad Variations from Around the World
The classic cucumber salad is just the beginning. Let’s explore global takes on this refreshing dish:
🥒 1. Thai Cucumber Salad (Ajad)
A spicy, sweet, and tangy version with Southeast Asian flair.
Ingredients:
-
Sliced cucumbers
-
Red onion
-
Fresh red chilies
-
Chopped peanuts
-
Rice vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Fish sauce or soy sauce
-
Cilantro
Flavor Profile: Spicy, sweet, and tangy with crunchy peanuts on top.
🥒 2. German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)
A creamy version made with sour cream or yogurt.
Ingredients:
-
Cucumbers
-
Onion
-
Dill
-
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
Vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Salt & Pepper
Flavor Profile: Mild and creamy with hints of vinegar and herbs — perfect with schnitzel or sausages.
🥒 3. Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
A punchy, fiery salad served as a banchan (side dish).
Ingredients:
-
Cucumbers
-
Garlic
-
Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
-
Soy sauce
-
Vinegar
-
Sesame oil
-
Sugar
-
Sesame seeds
Flavor Profile: Spicy, garlicky, umami-rich with toasted sesame.
🥒 4. Japanese Cucumber Sunomono
A minimalist vinegar-dressed cucumber dish often served with seafood.
Ingredients:
-
Thinly sliced cucumber
-
Rice vinegar
-
Sugar
-
Salt
-
Wakame seaweed (optional)
-
Toasted sesame seeds
Flavor Profile: Delicate, lightly sweet and sour, great as a light starter.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad Every Time
✅ Use Fresh Cucumbers
Choose firm, unwaxed cucumbers for best results. English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and low seed content.
✅ Slice Evenly
Uniform slices ensure even marination and a pleasing texture.
✅ Salt Before Dressing
Drawing out water prevents the salad from turning watery and keeps it crisp.
✅ Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad rest in the fridge enhances the flavor and provides that refreshing quality.
✅ Don’t Overdo the Dressing
Cucumbers release water over time, so you don’t need much dressing. Add just enough to coat.
How to Store Leftover Cucumber Salad
Homemade cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
✅ Do:
-
Store in a glass container for best freshness.
-
Use tongs to serve to avoid introducing moisture or bacteria.
❌ Don’t:
-
Freeze cucumber salad — cucumbers become mushy after thawing.
-
Leave out at room temperature for extended periods.
What to Serve with Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a flexible side dish that goes well with many meals. Here are a few delicious pairings:
-
Grilled meats (chicken, pork, lamb)
-
Roasted salmon or grilled fish
-
Rice bowls or grain salads
-
Spicy foods (curry, jerk chicken, kimchi rice)
-
Sandwiches and wraps
-
Falafel or hummus platters
-
BBQ skewers or burgers
Creative Add-Ins and Upgrades
Want to elevate your cucumber salad even further? Try these ideas:
-
Avocado: Add creamy diced avocado for richness.
-
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds saltiness and tang.
-
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy — great in summer salads.
-
Radishes: For peppery crunch and color.
-
Pomegranate seeds: A pop of sweet-tart flavor.
-
Mint or basil: Use instead of dill for a fresh twist.
-
Pickled onions: Adds zing and color.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers
Besides being delicious and versatile, cucumbers come with plenty of health benefits:
🥒 Hydration
Cucumbers are about 95% water, making them excellent for staying hydrated.
🥒 Low in Calories
Ideal for low-calorie diets without sacrificing satisfaction.
🥒 Rich in Antioxidants
Contain compounds like cucurbitacins and flavonoids that fight inflammation.
🥒 Supports Skin Health
Silica and water content promote skin elasticity and hydration.
🥒 Digestive Aid
The fiber content, especially in the peel, supports healthy digestion.
Make It a Meal
Turn your cucumber salad into a full meal by adding:
-
Grilled shrimp or tofu
-
A scoop of quinoa, couscous, or chickpeas
-
Boiled eggs for protein
-
A dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess
Conclusion: Crisp Simplicity, Global Appeal
Cucumber salad is more than a humble side dish — it's a canvas for creativity, a way to celebrate fresh ingredients, and a timeless staple in cuisines across the globe. With minimal prep, affordable ingredients, and countless variations, this dish can adapt to almost any meal or mood.
Whether you're making a classic vinegar-dressed version, a creamy German variation, or a spicy Korean twist, cucumber salad is always cool, crunchy, and full of flavor.
So grab a cucumber or two, slice them up, and let this simple recipe bring a burst of freshness to your table.
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