When summer rolls around and the sun’s heat becomes nearly unbearable, nothing hits the spot quite like a cool, refreshing salad. Today, I’m excited to share with you a family favorite that’s become a staple at our picnics and barbecues: Fresh Cucumber Side Salad with Red Onions.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It all started a few years ago during a trip to a quaint little farmers market with my grandmother. She loved exploring local markets for the freshest produce, and that day was no different. We stumbled upon a stand with the most vibrant, crisp cucumbers and deeply colored red onions. My grandmother, always one for simple and fresh flavors, decided on the spot that we would make a salad out of them. The result was an instant hit – light, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. Since then, it’s been a beloved dish in our family, especially during those sweltering summer days.
One of the best parts about this salad is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The cucumbers provide a crisp, hydrating crunch, while the red onions add a sweet sharpness. The apple cider vinegar dressing ties everything together with a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, enhanced by the subtle warmth of garlic and oregano.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with a few variations to keep things interesting. Adding fresh dill or mint can give the salad a new, herby twist. Sometimes, I swap out the apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar for a slightly milder flavor. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. And for those who love a touch of sweetness, a handful of cherry tomatoes not only brightens up the dish but also complements the cucumbers and onions beautifully.
What I love most about this salad is how versatile it is. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own as a light snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just a bit of slicing and mixing, and you’re done. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a quick and healthy dish, this Fresh Cucumber Side Salad with Red Onions is sure to impress.
Making Fresh Cucumber Side Salad With Red Onions
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Ingredients
- 2 red onions, sliced into rings
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cucumbers, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup sugar
Directions
- In a big mixing bowl, blend the apple cider vinegar, water, vegetable oil, sugar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Put the cucumber slices and onion rings into the bowl. Toss to coat the veggies evenly with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Serve chilled and savor this refreshing salad!
Storing Suggestions:
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or rice vinegar. However, each type of vinegar will slightly alter the flavor of the salad.
Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?
No, peeling the cucumbers is not mandatory. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
How long should I let the salad marinate?
While a minimum of 2 hours is recommended, letting the salad marinate overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or radishes to give the salad more variety and color.
What can I do if the salad is too tangy?
If the salad turns out too tangy, you can balance the flavor by adding a little more sugar or a splash of water.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, the flavors improve the longer it marinates, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Fresh Cucumber Side Salad With Red Onions
Ingredients
- 3 cucumbers peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 red onions thinly sliced into rings
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, vegetable oil, sugar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well blended.
- Add the sliced cucumbers and onions to the bowl. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it marinate overnight to develop more flavor.
- Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing salad!
