Marinated Cucumber

 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.