Looking for a refreshing and tangy side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? This Southern-Style Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar offers a crisp, flavorful bite that pairs well with a variety of meals, making it a great choice for a healthy go-to salad idea.
Southern-Style Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar is a classic Southern dish known for its refreshing taste and tangy flavor. Made with fresh cucumbers, onions, and a simple vinegar dressing, it's a perfect side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or summer picnics. The marinating process enhances the flavors, making it a delicious and healthy option for busy parents and health-conscious eaters.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Refreshing: Low in calories, high in flavor.
- Versatile Side Dish: Complements a variety of meals.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
If you like this cucumber salad recipe, you may also love our Creamy Cucumber Radish Salad or our Healthy Cucumber Bites.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Cucumbers: Fresh and crisp, ideal for absorbing the tangy dressing.
- Onion: Adds a sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the vinegar.
- Green Bell Pepper: Provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- White Vinegar: The base of the tangy dressing.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat.
- Water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly, making it perfect for marinating.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make Southern-Style Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar
STEP ONE: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and slice the cucumbers. Thinly slice the onion and green bell pepper. Smash the garlic cloves.
STEP TWO: Mix the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine white vinegar, white sugar, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and water. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
STEP THREE: Combine Ingredients
Add the sliced cucumbers, onions, green bell peppers, and smashed garlic to the bowl with the marinade. Stir and make sure all the vegetables are well-coated with the marinade.
STEP FOUR: Marinate
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate overnight.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- English Cucumbers: Use any variety.
- White Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can be used.
- Green Bell Pepper: Substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: For a keto-friendly version, use a sugar substitute.
- Flavor: Add fresh herbs like dill.
- Spice: Include red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
How Should You Store This?
Store any leftover marinated cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
Use the freshest cucumbers and onions for the best flavor.
For the best flavor, cucumbers should marinate overnight.
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Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover cucumbers to make a refreshing cucumber water.
- Add leftover bell peppers to your next stir-fry.
- Slice leftover onions for a delicious burger topping.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
- Serve with Low and Slow Oven Baked Ribs for a complete meal.
- Great with a hearty sandwich for a quick lunch.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Tomato and Avocado Side Salad
- Tangy Coleslaw
- Classic Southern Egg Salad
- Classic Southern Potato Salad
- The Best Coleslaw Recipe for Pulled Pork or Chicken BBQ
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FAQ
For the best flavor, cucumbers should marinate for at least 2 hours. However, allowing them to marinate overnight improves the taste significantly because they better absorb the tangy vinegar and seasonings.
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for white vinegar in a Southern cucumber salad. It provides a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor. Other alternatives include rice vinegar and red wine vinegar.
To make a Southern cucumber salad more flavorful, consider adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil. For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Incorporating vegetables such as tomatoes can add to the salad's flavor.
📖 Recipe
Southern-Style Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar
Equipment
- Sharp Knife
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 2 large cloves garlic smashed
- 1 cup white vinegar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- ⅔ cup water
Instructions
- Peel and slice the cucumbers.
- Thinly slice the onion and green bell pepper. Smash the garlic cloves.
- In a large bowl, combine white vinegar, white sugar, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and water. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- Add the sliced cucumbers, onions, green bell peppers, and smashed garlic to the bowl with the marinade. Stir and make sure all the vegetables are well-coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Remove the garlic cloves before serving. Stir the salad again to redistribute the marinade, then serve chilled.
Notes
- English Cucumbers: Use any variety.
- White Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can be used.
- Green Bell Pepper: Substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
Nutrition
This Southern-Style Cucumber and Onion Salad with Vinegar is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and tangy side dish.
Try it today and share your results!
Important Food Safety Tips
Always wash vegetables thoroughly before use. Store salad in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days. Use clean utensils and bowls to prevent contamination.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
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