Marinated Cucumber Salad
## 🥒✨ Marinated Cucumber Salad: Cool, Crisp, and Zingy
When it comes to easy summer sides, **Marinated Cucumber Salad** is a classic that never goes out of style. With thinly sliced cucumbers soaking up a sweet and tangy vinegar dressing, this salad is refreshing, hydrating, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for **BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches** and comes together with just a few pantry staples.
The longer it sits, the better it gets — so it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, too.
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## 🧾 Ingredients
* **2 large cucumbers**, thinly sliced
*English or Persian cucumbers work best — less seeds and more crunch.*
* **½ small red onion**, thinly sliced
*Adds sharpness, color, and flavor contrast.*
* **¼ cup white vinegar** *(or apple cider vinegar for a softer tang)*
*The key to that zippy marinade.*
* **2 tbsp sugar**
*Balances the acidity with a hint of sweetness.*
* **1 tbsp olive oil** *(optional)*
*Adds a touch of richness.*
* **½ tsp salt**
* **¼ tsp black pepper**
* **1 tsp dried dill** *(or 1 tbsp fresh dill)*
*For a bright, herby flavor.*
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## 👩🍳 Instructions
### 🔹 1. Slice the Veggies
* Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice the cucumbers and onions.
* Place in a large bowl.
### 🔹 2. Make the Marinade
* In a small bowl or jar, whisk together vinegar, sugar, olive oil (if using), salt, pepper, and dill until well combined.
### 🔹 3. Combine and Chill
* Pour the marinade over the cucumbers and onions.
* Toss everything to coat evenly.
* Cover and refrigerate for at least **1 hour**, preferably **4 hours or overnight** for best flavor.
### 🔹 4. Serve Cold
* Toss gently before serving.
* Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
* A perfect side for **grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches**
* Great with **BBQ, fried chicken, or seafood**
* Add cherry tomatoes or feta for a heartier salad twist
* Serve in pita pockets with **hummus or falafel** for a Mediterranean vibe
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## 💡 Tips & Variations
* **No sugar?** Use honey, maple syrup, or a low-cal sweetener.
* **Add crunch**: Throw in some sliced radishes or bell peppers.
* **Make it spicy**: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
* **Asian twist**: Swap dill for sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
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