This Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar is an easy-to-make recipe that uses fresh veggies from your garden. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something simple, yet tasty. The crisp cucumbers, sharp onions, and tart vinegar create a flavor combination that’s sure to win you over. Plus, you can make it in advance and it pairs well with many dishes like grilled meats, baked fish, or even a basic sandwich. So if you want something fresh and zingy to add to your meal, this salad is the answer.
Old Fashioned Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar
Ingredients
- 3 cucumbers sliced thinly
- 1 red onion, sliced thinly
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Peel the cucumbers (optional), and slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the more flavorful and marinated the cucumbers will be.
- Slice the red onion as thinly as possible. You might want to use a mandoline slicer for this, but be careful.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber and onion slices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and onions, making sure all the slices are well-coated. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
- When you're ready to serve, you can garnish the salad with fresh dill or parsley if you like. Enjoy this cool, tangy, and crunchy salad as a side dish at your summer BBQ, or as a refreshing snack.
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FAQ
Can I use a different type of vinegar for this salad?
Absolutely! While white vinegar gives a clear, sharp tang, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that each vinegar adds its unique flavor.
How long can I store the cucumber and onion salad?
You can store the salad in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. The flavor will intensify over time, and the cucumbers and onions will soften slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can. This recipe is versatile. Feel free to add in other garden vegetables like sliced radishes or bell peppers. They would contribute additional flavors and textures to the salad.
Why is it recommended to slice the cucumbers and onions thinly?
Slicing the cucumbers and onions thinly helps them absorb the vinegar dressing better, ensuring that every bite is flavorful. Thicker slices might not marinate as well, resulting in a less flavorful salad.
Can I skip the sugar in the dressing?
You can, but the sugar helps balance the sharpness of the vinegar and onions. If you prefer a less sweet salad, I recommend reducing the sugar rather than omitting it entirely.
Can I use this salad as a pickle substitute?
Absolutely! This salad, due to its vinegar content, has a pickled taste. You can use it to complement burgers, sandwiches, or any dish where you’d typically serve pickles.
Can I use a sweet onion instead of a red onion?
Yes, a sweet onion will work well and provide a milder flavor compared to red onion. It’s all about personal preference and what you have available.
