Classic Grandma’s Cucumber Salad Recipe
A simple, nostalgic cucumber salad with a perfect balance of tangy vinegar, subtle sweetness, and fresh dill. Ideal for potlucks and warm days, this refreshing side dish is quick and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Rinse and thinly slice 3 English cucumbers to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Peel and thinly slice 1 small red onion. Optionally soak slices in cold water for 5 minutes and drain to mellow the bite.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup white vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 cup water until sugar and salt dissolve.
- Add sliced cucumbers and onions into a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat without crushing cucumbers.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill over the salad and toss lightly to distribute.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cucumbers to crisp up.
- Before serving, toss salad gently and drain any excess liquid if desired.
Notes
Do not salt cucumbers ahead of time to avoid sogginess. Slice cucumbers just before preparing to prevent bitterness and excess water. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor and texture. Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste. Fresh dill is preferred over dried for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup per serv
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 470
- Fat: 0.1
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: cucumber salad, classic cucumber salad, potluck salad, easy cucumber salad, dill cucumber salad, refreshing side dish, summer salad