A timeless summer side, Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe brings together thinly sliced cucumbers and onions tossed in a lightly sweetened vinegar dressing. Originating from Southern kitchens where homegrown cukes and pantry staples reigned, this salad’s appeal lies in its simplicity and bright flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a quick, cool snack, the Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe delivers crisp, refreshing satisfaction.
Recipe Details & Difficulty
- Prep Time: 10 minutes ⏳
- Additional Time (marinating): 1–2 hours ⏲️
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 6 (1× yield) 🍽️
- Difficulty Level: Easy ⭐
Cook Mode Reminder: Keep your screen awake while layering and marinating your salad for seamless follow-through!
Local Offers & Featured Products
- Whole Foods 365 Organic Cucumbers: Crisp and pesticide-free for the freshest crunch.
- Walmart Great Value White Vinegar: Budget-friendly and pantry-staple quality.
- Trader Joe’s Organic Sweet Onions: Mild, sweet, and perfect for salads.
- Premium Upgrade: Use Bragg’s Raw Apple Cider Vinegar for added health benefits.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad
| Ingredient | 1× Yield (6 servings) | 2× Yield (12 servings) | 4× Yield (24 servings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English cucumbers, thinly sliced | 3 medium (about 6 cups) | 6 medium (12 cups) | 12 medium (24 cups) |
| Sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla), thinly sliced | 1 large (2 cups) | 2 large (4 cups) | 4 large (8 cups) |
| White vinegar | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | 4 tablespoons | 8 tablespoons |
| Water | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | 2 teaspoons | 4 teaspoons |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 1 teaspoon | 2 teaspoons |
Note: Use unsalted cukes and sweet onions to better control sodium; measure vinegar and sugar precisely.
Step-by-Step Directions
1️⃣ Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
- Peel cucumbers if desired (for extra crunch, leave peel on).
- Slice cucumbers and onions paper-thin using a mandoline or sharp knife.
2️⃣ Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, water, kosher salt, and pepper until sugar dissolves.
3️⃣ Step 3: Combine & Marinate
- Place cucumber and onion slices in a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over vegetables, tossing gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally for even flavor.
4️⃣ Step 4: Serve
- Drain off excess liquid before plating.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Doneness Check: Vegetables should be crisp-tender, lightly translucent, and infused with tangy sweetness.
Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad Nutrition Facts
| Yield | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1× (per serving) | 58 | 0 g | 14 g | 2 g | 9 g | 1 g |
| 2× (per serving) | 56 | 0 g | 13 g | 2 g | 8 g | 1 g |
| 4× (per serving) | 54 | 0 g | 12 g | 2 g | 8 g | 1 g |
Values may vary slightly with cucumber size and sugar brand.
Chef’s Notes, Tips & Variations
- Flavor Variations:
- Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
- Stir in fresh dill, mint, or tarragon for herbal brightness.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Over-salting: Pre-salted cucumbers can become too salty when dressed.
- Under-marinating: Less than 1 hour yields bland results.
- Hot water: Always use cold or room-temperature water to preserve crispness.
- Storage Methods:
- Refrigerator: Keeps up to 3 days in an airtight container—toss briefly before serving.
- Freezer: Not recommended; cucumbers lose texture.
- Medical & Healthy-Eating Tips:
- Allergy Note: Naturally gluten-free and vegan.
- Sugar Reduction: Substitute sugar with equal honey or maple syrup.
- Hydration Boost: Cucumbers are ~95% water—ideal for hot climates and post-workout snacks.
Team’s Personal View
“We grew up watching Grandma whisk together cukes and onions from her garden—and the first bite still takes us back to sunlit porches,” says Laila Carter, lead tester. “Our favorite twist is stirring in a handful of fresh dill and serving it alongside grilled chicken.”
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
Refreshing, fuss-free, and steeped in nostalgia, Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe is destined to become your go-to summer side. The balance of crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and tangy dressing delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re plating it solo or pairing it with backyard BBQ classics like Cowboy Spaghetti or Roasted New Red Potatoes, this Grandma’s Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe will brighten any meal.
If you love chilled summer sides, don’t miss our Sweet Restaurant Slaw Recipe — another cool, crunchy classic that pairs beautifully with grilled meats and sandwiches.
Looking for more retro flavor? Jen’s Heavenly Egg Salad brings the same comforting, old-fashioned vibe to your table.
