Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad
Looking for a quick side dish? This Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad is as simple as it gets. Just a few ingredients, a quick toss, and you’ve got a fresh, flavorful dish. It’s light, crisp, and full of zingy goodness. Perfect as a healthy side, a refreshing snack, or a quick lunch. Bring it to a cookout or keep it all to yourself. Either way, it disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad
- Quick and easy: Ready in minutes with just a few simple ingredients
- Light and refreshing: Crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing make it super satisfying
- Healthy choice: Naturally low in calories and full of hydrating goodness
- Versatile: Great as a side, snack, or light lunch
- Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser at picnics, cookouts, and potlucks
- Customizable: Easily add herbs, spices, or toppings to make it your own
Recipe Tips
- Use thin slices: Thinly sliced cucumbers absorb the dressing better and taste crispier
- Chill before serving: Letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes enhances the flavor
- Taste and adjust: Add more vinegar, sweetness, or salt to suit your preference
- Keep it simple: Don’t overdo the ingredients, the beauty is in its simplicity
- Use fresh cucumbers: Firm, fresh cucumbers give the best crunch and flavor
- Add herbs last: Stir in fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color and taste
Cucumber Salad Variations
- Creamy version: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer texture
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat
- Asian-inspired: Swap vinegar for rice vinegar and add a dash of sesame oil and soy sauce
- Lemon twist: Use fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy zing
- Add crunch: Toss in thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers for extra texture
- Touch of sweet: Add a few thin slices of apple or pear for natural sweetness
Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp Avocado oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add sliced cucumbers to a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, avocado oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes (or longer) to let the flavors develop.
- Serve cold.
Notes
Calories: 60
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 100mg
FAQ: Cucumber Salad
Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for a bit. Just store it in the fridge and serve within 24 hours for best crunch.
It’s up to you. If the skin is thick or waxy, peeling is a good idea. Otherwise, keep the skin for extra nutrients.
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar work well. You can also try rice vinegar for a milder flavor.
Yes, it’s light and low in calories, especially if you go easy on the oil and sweetener.
Dill, mint, parsley, or basil all work beautifully and add fresh flavor.
Yes, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta to turn it into a light lunch.
It’s best eaten within 1–2 days, but the flavors hold up well for about 24 hours.
Yes, avocado oil has a mild flavor and is a great heart-healthy option.
Check Out These Side Dish Recipes:
- Cucumber Tomato Pasta Salad: A light, tangy pasta salad with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. Perfect for warm days.
- Potato Salad: Classic creamy potato salad with a flavorful mix of mayo, mustard, and crunchy add-ins for texture and zing.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes: A cozy roasted veggie combo with caramelized edges and a hint of sweetness, ideal as a hearty side.
- Dense Bean Salad: Protein-packed and filling with a mix of beans, veggies, and herbs tossed in a simple, savory dressing.
- Macaroni Salad: A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet macaroni salad that’s loaded with crunch and flavor.
- Taco Mac and Cheese: A bold fusion of cheesy mac and taco spices, combining comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist.