18th-century English writer Samuel Johnson once said: “Cucumbers should be well sliced, dressed with pepper and vinegar, and then thrown out.” That’s only because Mr. Johnson didn’t have this easy and deliciously fresh cucumber and onion salad with vinegar recipe! You know I’m all about Southern comfort food, and this Cucumber and Onion Salad is no exception. It adds something extra to any barbecue, picnic, or family get-together.

Recipe Ingredients

How to Make Cucumber and Onion Salad

Slice the Cucumber – Cut thin cucumber slices using either a sharp knife or a Mandoline slicer. Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to mix the cucumber and salt together. Set aside for 30-60 minutes to draw out excess water.Dry the Cucumbers – Line a baking sheet with paper towels after your cucumbers have released the excess moisture. Rinse the cucumber slices, then place them on the baking sheet and gently pat them dry.Other Ingredients – Slice the onion and chop up the garlic.Assembly – Put the cucumbers into a salad bowl. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes with black pepper to taste.Dressing – Whisk the water, vinegar, and sugar together until blended. Pour it over the salad and serve.

Recipe Variations

Cucumber and onion salad with mayo is a creamy alternative found on many Southern tables.Alternatively, why not opt for a cucumber and onion salad with sour cream to add some extra richness and texture to the flavor of this fresh and crisp side dish?Add tomato to enhance the color and flavor variety to your salad.

Tips and Tricks

Eliminate the cucumber’s bitter taste by peeling all or some of the skin.Add some dill to enhance the salad with extra flavor.Add 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to add some zest and zing to the salad.Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepare the cucumber and salt mix ahead of time to allow it to sit for at least an hour. That gives you enough time to get the rest of the ingredients ready, and to pour yourself a glass of wine. 😉🍷

Serving and Storage Instructions

Cucumber and Onion Salad is best served in a large bowl. After assembling the salad and adding the vinegar mix, cover tightly with plastic wrap. Leave in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This salad can stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator. I don’t recommend freezing this salad as raw vegetables tend to turn to mush after freezing.

What to Serve with Cucumber and Onion Salad

This salad can be served alongside rich braised beef neck bones or hearty instant-pot country-style ribs. Some delicious stuffed pork chops or your choice of ribs works, too.

More Cool Cucumber Recipes to Try

Cucumber Tomato SaladCucumber SandwichesPineapple Cucumber SaladCucumber Salmon Cream Cheese Appetizer

Conclusion

This cucumber and onion salad is straightforward with simple ingredients, but there is nothing simple about the flavor. Would you like more deliciously nutritious recipes? Sign up for my newsletter to keep up-to-date.❤️

Watch How to Make It

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