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Easy Simple Cucumber Salad Recipe with 3 Fresh Ingredients to Try Today

easy simple cucumber salad - featured image

A quick, fresh, and versatile cucumber salad made with just three ingredients—cucumber, rice vinegar, and sugar. Ready in under 10 minutes, it’s perfect as a light side or refreshing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey/maple syrup as a substitute)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumbers. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
  2. If cucumbers feel watery, place slices in a salad spinner or lay them on paper towels and gently pat dry to keep the salad crisp.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of rice vinegar with 1 tablespoon (12 g) of sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Warm the vinegar slightly if needed.
  4. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss using a wooden spoon or spatula until all slices are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cucumbers to soak up the dressing.
  6. Before serving, taste and add a pinch of salt if desired. Optionally, add freshly ground black pepper or chopped fresh dill.
  7. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy chilled.

Notes

Slice cucumbers thinly for best flavor and texture. Resting the salad in the fridge for at least 10 minutes mellows the vinegar’s sharpness and enhances flavor. Optional salt should be added after resting to avoid drawing out too much water. Use rice vinegar for mild acidity; white vinegar can be used but is stronger and should be diluted.

Nutrition

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