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Quick Crisp 5-Ingredient Cucumber Salad

quick crisp cucumber salad - featured image

A lightning-fast, incredibly fresh, and surprisingly addictive cucumber salad made with just five simple ingredients. Perfectly crisp and tangy, this salad is an ideal refreshing summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 large English cucumbers under cold water. Using a sharp knife, slice them thinly—about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick. Optionally peel half the cucumbers for a mix of textures.
  2. Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt evenly over them. Toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. After 10 minutes, carefully pour off the liquid from the bowl. Use a fine mesh strainer or gently squeeze the cucumbers in a clean kitchen towel to remove extra water if desired.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently until every slice is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh, firm cucumbers for best crispness. Thin, even slices absorb dressing better. Salting cucumbers draws out moisture to keep salad crisp. Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste. Chill salad for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor. Consume within 2 days for freshness. Optional add-ons include fresh dill, red onion, or red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, quick salad, summer side dish, easy cucumber salad, 5-ingredient salad, refreshing salad, healthy side