This simple vinegar cucumber onion salad is a perfect way to use up fresh cucumbers! Serve chilled or room temperature for an incredibly easy summer side dish.
Peel the cucumbers if desired (optional but recommended for thick skin varieties) and cut into approximately ¼” thick slices
2 Large cucumbers
In a medium microwave safe bowl, combine the onion slices, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper
¼ Large red onion, thinly sliced, ¼ Cup apple cider vinegar, 2 Tsp granulated sugar, 1 Tsp salt, 1 Tsp black pepper
Cover and microwave on high for 1 minute to soften the onions
Add the sliced cucumbers and garlic to the onion bowl, then stir to combine well
1 Clove garlic, minced
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) before serving
Top with fresh herbs before serving, if desired
Notes
Any type of cucumber is fine (though the fewer seeds the better). I’m using English cucumbers, but often use pickling cucumbers as well
You can swap the red onion for a sweet onion (like Vidalia) or shallots
Other good vinegar choices are red wine, white balsamic, rice vinegar, or plain white vinegar
All seasonings may be adjusted to taste, but this is a good starting point
Top with some fresh herbs for additional flavor: dill, parsley, and basil are great choices
To keep your cucumbers more crispy, place them in a colander and sprinkle them with a couple teaspoons of salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the extra salt off and pat dry
If you prefer crunchy onions in your salad, you can skip the microwave step
I like to shake the bowl or stir things around a couple times while they’re marinating to ensure more even flavor (but if you don’t have time that’s fine)
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to scoop the cucumbers and onions out of the brine for serving
Store vinegar cucumber onion salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It may be enjoyed chilled, or brought to room temperature before serving
If you add tomatoes to your salad, then it should be consumed within 3 days for best results
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any herbs or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only