This cold and refreshing cucumber salad is the perfect snack or side on a warm day!

why make this recipe

This salad is cool, fresh, and quick. It uses few ingredients and comes together in minutes. It is a light side or snack on a warm day.

introduction

This cold and refreshing cucumber salad is the perfect snack or side on a warm day. It tastes bright from vinegar and a little sweet from sugar. The cucumbers stay crisp and the dressing is simple.

how to make Refreshing Cucumber Salad

Wash and slice the cucumbers. Mix the dressing in a bowl. Toss cucumbers with dressing and chill for 10–20 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Ingredients :

• 2 large cucumbers (or 3 small), thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or cilantro (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions :

1. Wash cucumbers and slice thin. Remove seeds if you like.
2. Put cucumber slices and onion slices in a bowl.
3. In a small bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and oil until sugar and salt dissolve.
4. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss well so all pieces get coated.
5. Add chopped herbs and sesame seeds if using. Toss again.
6. Chill in the fridge for 10–20 minutes, then taste and add pepper or more salt if needed.
7. Serve cold.

how to serve Refreshing Cucumber Salad

Serve it cold as a side with grilled vegetables, rice, or plain sandwiches. You can also put it on top of toasted bread or mix into a bowl with cooked grains for a quick lunch.

how to store Refreshing Cucumber Salad

Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays best for 1–2 days. After that the cucumbers get soft. Do not freeze.

tips to make Refreshing Cucumber Salad

• Slice cucumbers thin for a crisp bite.
• Salt the cucumbers lightly and let sit 5–10 minutes, then drain excess liquid for less watery salad.
• Chill before serving to let flavors blend.
• Taste the dressing and adjust vinegar or sugar to your preference.

variation (if any)

• Add sliced cherry tomatoes or radishes for color.
• Use yogurt or plain Greek yogurt in the dressing for a creamy version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
• Swap dill for mint for a fresher taste.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I use bottled salad dressing instead?
A: Yes. Use a light vinegar-based dressing or a simple vinaigrette. Mix to taste.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can make it a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. Do not keep more than 1–2 days for best texture.

Q: What cucumber type is best?
A: English or Persian cucumbers work well because they are crisp and have fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers are fine too.

Q: Is this salad gluten free?
A: Yes, with the basic ingredients above it is gluten free. Just check any added sauces or seeds.

Conclusion

For a light wrap idea that pairs well with this salad, try the Delicious Easy Salad Rolls Recipe on Lemon8. If you want a Korean-style dressing idea, see the Korean Cucumber Salad recipe on Feasting At Home.

Refreshing Cucumber Salad

Print Recipe

This cold and refreshing cucumber salad is the perfect snack or side on a warm day, featuring a simple dressing that enhances the natural crispness of the cucumbers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cook
• Cuisine: Global
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large cucumbers (or 3 small), thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or cilantro (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh ground pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash cucumbers and slice thin. Remove seeds if you like.
2. Put cucumber slices and onion slices in a bowl.
3. In a small bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and oil until sugar and salt dissolve.
4. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss well so all pieces get coated.
5. Add chopped herbs and sesame seeds if using. Toss again.
6. Chill in the fridge for 10–20 minutes, then taste and add pepper or more salt if needed.
7. Serve cold.

Notes

For best results, slice cucumbers thinly and salt lightly to reduce wateriness. Chill before serving to let flavors blend.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cucumber salad, refreshing salad, easy salad recipe, summer side dish