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Fresh Grandma’s Cucumber Onion Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Vinegar Dressing

fresh grandmas cucumber onion salad - featured image

A crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet cucumber and onion salad tossed in a balanced vinegar dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer gatherings or quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 500g)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 100g)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. If using regular cucumbers, peel if skin is thick or waxed. Lay slices flat, sprinkle a pinch of salt, let sit 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the red onion. For milder taste, soak onion slices in cold water for 5-10 minutes, then drain.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, and water until sugar and salt dissolve completely. Taste and adjust if needed.
  4. Combine sliced cucumbers and onions in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat. Add chopped dill if using and toss again.
  5. Cover the bowl or transfer salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and onions soften.
  6. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Thin slicing is key for crisp texture. Salt cucumbers before dressing to draw out moisture and keep salad from becoming watery. Let salad chill for a few hours or overnight for best flavor. Eat within 24 hours for optimal crunch. Variations include swapping herbs, vinegars, or adding a creamy element like sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, onion salad, vinegar dressing, summer salad, easy side dish, fresh salad, homemade dressing