Cucumber Onion Salad: A Refreshingly Simple Recipe
This vibrant and refreshing cucumber onion salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. The crisp cucumber and sharp onion are perfectly balanced, creating a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving, perfect for sharing! Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
- 2 large cucumbers: Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best texture. English cucumbers work particularly well, as they have fewer seeds.
- 1 large red onion: Red onion provides a beautiful color and a slightly milder bite than white or yellow onions. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill: Dill adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the cucumbers and onions perfectly. Fresh dill is highly recommended, but dried dill can be substituted (use about 1 tablespoon).
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley: Parsley adds a touch of freshness and a slightly peppery note.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: This adds a tangy element that balances the sweetness of the cucumbers. You can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. Adjust according to your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry the cucumbers and red onion. Thinly slice the cucumbers and thinly slice or finely chop the red onion.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- Add Herbs: Add the chopped fresh dill and parsley to the bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or crumbled feta cheese can add a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can add a creamy element to the salad.
- Lemon juice alternative: Substitute lemon juice for the vinegar for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like mint or chives.
Serving Suggestions:
This cucumber onion salad is a perfect accompaniment to:
- Grilled meats and fish
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Salads
- Burgers
This simple yet flavorful cucumber onion salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
