Print

Refreshing Cucumber Salad with Red Onion and Dill Recipe

5 from 144 reviews

This refreshing cucumber salad features thinly sliced English cucumbers combined with red onion, fresh dill, and a tangy red wine vinegar dressing. Lightly salted and sweetened cucumber slices are tossed with a zesty, herbaceous dressing, making it a perfect crisp and flavorful side dish ideal for warm weather or as a complement to grilled meats and sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 pound English cucumbers (very thinly sliced)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/3 cup red onion (very thinly sliced)
  • 1/3 cup fresh dill (chopped)

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cucumbers: Toss the thinly sliced English cucumbers with kosher salt and sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Let them sit for 5 to 7 minutes to draw out excess moisture and enhance flavor.
  2. Add Onion and Dill: Incorporate the thinly sliced red onions and chopped fresh dill into the cucumber mixture, stirring gently to combine.
  3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, black pepper, and olive oil until well emulsified.
  4. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cucumber, onion, and dill mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature as a crisp side dish.

Notes

  • For best results, use English cucumbers for their thin skins and few seeds, which keep the salad crisp.
  • If you prefer, substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
  • To reduce the saltiness, rinse the cucumbers lightly after resting and drain well before adding other ingredients.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick if desired.

Keywords: cucumber salad, fresh dill salad, cucumber onion salad, easy side dish, no-cook salad, summer salad, healthy salad, vegan salad option