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Perfect 4-Ingredient Cucumber Salad – Fresh & Crisp!
Daniel Hayes

Perfect 4-Ingredient Cucumber Salad – Fresh & Crisp!

The ultimate fresh and crisp cucumber salad made with just 4 simple ingredients. Paper-thin slices stay crunchy for days thanks to a smart draining technique and perfectly balanced sweet-tangy dressing. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and ready in minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 1 small red onion
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Equipment

  • Mandoline slicer or sharp knife For paper-thin uniform slices
  • Colander For draining excess moisture
  • Large Mixing Bowl For tossing and chilling
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Wash and trim 2 large English cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice into paper-thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Thinly slice 1 small red onion into half-moons.
  2. Place slices in a colander, sprinkle with 1 tsp kosher salt, and toss. Let drain 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar and 2 tbsp granulated sugar until sugar fully dissolves.
  4. Add drained cucumber and onion to the bowl. Toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired. Serve cold. Enjoy the perfect fresh & crisp bite!

Notes

Salt used during prep is rinsed off and not counted in the final 4-ingredient total. Salad tastes even better after 1-2 hours of chilling. Keeps its crisp texture up to 48 hours refrigerated.