Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad

Bright, Bold & Perfect for Summer Cookouts

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant side that’s simple but packed with flavor, this Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad is your new go-to. It balances crisp cucumber freshness with the perfect blend of sugar, vinegar, and just a touch of spice to wake up your taste buds. Whether you’re heading to a backyard BBQ, a family potluck, or just want a quick side that pleases everyone, this recipe hits all the right notes and has been trending big on summer recipe boards!

Why This Cucumber Salad Works

• Quick & easy: Ready in 10 minutes with minimal prep

• Flavor-packed: Sweet, sour, and a subtle spicy kick

• Versatile: Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or as a refreshing snack

• Light & healthy: Low calorie, hydrating, and no heavy dressings

• No cooking required: Perfect for hot days when you want minimal kitchen time

• Clean eating friendly: No pork, no bacon, no wine, no alcohol

Ingredients

• 4 medium cucumbers (English or Kirby cucumbers work best), thinly sliced

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar (for mild tang)

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup as alternatives)

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional, for freshness)

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers and Onion

1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly. Optionally peel if skin is thick or waxed.

2. Slice cucumbers thinly (about 1/8 inch) using a knife or mandoline slicer for uniform pieces.

3. Thinly slice the red onion and separate into rings.

Mix the Sweet & Tangy Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.

2. Whisk vigorously until sugar dissolves completely and dressing is smooth.

Toss Salad and Marinate

1. Add sliced cucumbers and onions to the bowl with dressing.

2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sweet and tangy dressing.

3. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Garnish & Serve

1. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the salad.

2. Give one last gentle toss and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Expert Tips for Perfect Salad Every Time

• Use crisp cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal for their thin skins and fewer seeds, but Kirby cucumbers also work well. Avoid overripe or soft cucumbers.

• Uniform slicing ensures even dressing absorption and a nice crunch.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer tangier salads, reduce sugar slightly or add more vinegar. For a sweeter version, add a little more sugar or honey.

• Chill time matters: Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes so flavors meld and cucumbers soften slightly without becoming mushy.

• Customize heat: Omit or reduce red pepper flakes if you want a milder salad, or add more for a fiery kick.

• Onion prep: For a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes then drain before mixing.

Flavor Variations You’ll Love

Citrus Twist

Add zest of one lemon or lime to the dressing and swap apple cider vinegar for fresh lemon juice.

Asian Inspired

Replace apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar, add 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

Herb Lover’s Dream

Add fresh dill, mint, or basil alongside cilantro for an herbaceous punch.

Pickle-Style

Double vinegar, reduce sugar, and let the salad sit overnight for a quick pickle effect perfect on sandwiches or burgers.

Nutrition Info (Per 1-Cup Serving)

• Calories: ~60

• Fat: 0g

• Carbohydrates: 15g (mostly from sugar)

• Fiber: 1g

• Protein: <1g

• Sodium: ~300mg

A hydrating, low-fat, low-calorie salad with vitamins C and K from cucumbers and herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It tastes best after marinating 30 minutes to 2 hours. Consume within 24 hours for maximum crunch and freshness.

Q: Can I substitute vinegar?
A: Apple cider vinegar is mild and sweet but white vinegar or rice vinegar can be used—just adjust sugar and water accordingly.

Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
A: To make keto-compatible, reduce or omit sugar and replace with keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.

Q: How do I prevent soggy cucumbers?
A: Use crisp cucumbers and don’t marinate longer than 2 hours. Drain excess liquid if needed before serving.

Q: Can I add other veggies?
A: Sure! Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes add crunch and color.

Troubleshooting & Tips

How to Store

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Salad may release liquid over time; drain before serving and toss with a splash of fresh vinegar.

Ingredient Shopping List

• Cucumbers (English or Kirby)

• Red onion

• Apple cider vinegar

• Granulated sugar or natural sweetener

• Sea salt

• Black pepper

• Crushed red pepper flakes

• Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley)

Final Thoughts

This Sweet & Tangy Cucumber Salad is a surefire crowd-pleaser, combining the best of crisp freshness and vibrant flavor with an easy-to-make, no-fuss recipe. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a quick side, this salad brings color, crunch, and zing to any meal. Perfect for those sunny days when you want something light, bright, and downright addictive!

Ready to impress your guests or just enjoy a refreshing salad any day of the week? Bookmark this recipe—it’s going viral for a reason!