This crisp and refreshing Cucumber Salad combines crunchy vegetables with a creamy, sweet-tangy dressing. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect as a side dish for everyday meals or summer gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light, fresh, and incredibly easy to make
- A great balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors
- Uses inexpensive, everyday ingredients
- Adds color and freshness to any meal
- Ready in minutes, no special equipment needed
- Kid-friendly and perfect for picnics or barbecues
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 3 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot, grated or julienned
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
Add-Ins
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Directions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumbers, grate or julienne the carrot, dice the tomato, and thinly slice the red onion. Add all vegetables to a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mayonnaise, and honey until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Add the Eggs
Fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs carefully to avoid breaking them too much.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to crisp up.
Tips for Best Results
- Use firm cucumbers to keep the salad crunchy.
- If your cucumbers are watery, sprinkle them lightly with salt, rest for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey to taste.
- Add dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter coating.
- For a stronger tang, increase the vinegar slightly.
Variations & Substitutions
- Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for extra flavor.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a fruitier kick.
- Replace the honey with sugar or maple syrup if desired.
- Add sliced olives or corn for more texture and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, fish, or sandwiches.
- Add to a picnic spread with other cold salads.
- Serve in small bowls as a refreshing starter.
- Pair with rice dishes or Mediterranean meals for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Stir before serving, as vegetables may release water.
- Not suitable for freezing due to the high water content of cucumbers.
- Add fresh cucumbers if the salad softens too much after chilling.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables separately; combine just before serving.
Why is my cucumber salad watery?
Cucumbers naturally release water. Salting them briefly before mixing or serving immediately after tossing can help.
Can I leave out the eggs?
Yes, the eggs are optional, but they add richness and protein.
Can I use another type of onion?
Yes, white or yellow onions work, though red onions add better color and milder flavor.