Refreshing Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar Recipe

Recipe By:
Daniel Lawson
Updated:

When you think of summer picnics, light lunches, or simply a refreshing side dish to accompany a family dinner, cucumbers and onions in vinegar dance into the spotlight. This tangy delight is like a cool breeze on a hot day, with crisp cucumbers and zesty onions swimming in a sweet and sour bath that awakens your taste buds.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a family barbecue. My uncle took one bite and proclaimed it the “star of the show,” which led to a spirited debate about whether my grilled chicken or these cucumbers and onions in vinegar were more delicious. Spoiler alert: I’m still not sure who won that argument!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe brings together simplicity and flavor, making meal prep quick and enjoyable
  • You can easily adapt it based on seasonal veggies or personal preferences
  • Its vibrant colors add beauty to any table setting
  • Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners

I can still hear my cousin’s enthusiastic response when she first tasted these cucumbers and onions in vinegar—pure joy in every crunch!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for that satisfying crunch; English cucumbers are great for their thin skin.

  • Red Onions: These add a lovely sweetness; slice them thinly to ensure they soak up all the flavors.

  • White Vinegar: This is your tangy base; feel free to experiment with apple cider vinegar for a different twist.

  • Sugar: Just a bit of sweetness balances the acidity; adjust depending on your taste preference.

  • Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip this essential ingredient!

  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds depth; you can also use red pepper flakes for some heat.

  • Dill (optional): Fresh dill gives an aromatic touch; it pairs beautifully with cucumber.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds—aim for about 1/8 inch thick—for maximum crunchiness. Thinly slice your red onion as well.

Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar fully dissolves. The aroma will start to tickle your nose—it’s that good!

Add Vegetables to Marinade: Toss the sliced cucumbers and onions into your marinade mixture. Ensure every piece is well-coated; this step is crucial for flavor infusion.

Let it Chill Out!: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time allows flavors to meld beautifully while you count down the seconds.

Serve and Enjoy!: After chilling, give everything a good stir before serving. These cucumbers and onions in vinegar shine best when served cold as a delightful side dish or even as part of a salad.

The versatility of this recipe means you can enjoy it alongside grilled meats or simply snack on it straight from the bowl!

This simple yet flavorful dish has become a staple at my family gatherings—and who knew such humble ingredients could elicit so many happy memories? So go ahead and whip up some cucumbers and onions in vinegar today!

You Must Know

  • Cucumber and onions in vinegar are a delightful, refreshing side dish that pairs well with many meals
  • They’re quick to prepare and can elevate any summer barbecue or picnic
  • Their crisp texture and tangy flavor make them irresistible

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best cucumbers and onions in vinegar, slice your cucumbers thinly, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing. This method ensures that your dish remains crisp and flavorful.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your cucumber and onion mixture by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley. You can also swap out white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a hint of sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store cucumbers and onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. There’s no need to reheat; they taste best cold, straight from the fridge.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the perfect crunch, always salt your cucumbers beforehand to draw out excess moisture
  • Experiment with different vinegars for diverse flavor profiles
  • For added spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños

I remember serving cucumbers and onions in vinegar at a family picnic last summer. Everyone loved how refreshing it was alongside grilled burgers, and my aunt even asked for the recipe!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of cucumbers work best for this recipe?

English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or radishes can add color and flavor variety.

How long do these pickles last in the fridge?

They will stay fresh for up to a week when stored properly.

Print
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Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar

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Cucumbers and onions in vinegar are the ultimate summer side dish, combining crisp cucumbers and zesty onions in a tangy sweet-and-sour marinade. This refreshing salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light complement to any meal. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this dish will quickly become a staple at your gatherings!

  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: About 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups sliced cucumbers (about 2 large cucumbers)
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice cucumbers into rounds (about 1/8 inch thick) and slice red onion.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add sliced cucumbers and onions to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
  • Author: DANIEL LAWSON
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: N/A
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No cooking required
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
  • Calories: 40
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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