Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar

Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar

A refreshing and tangy side dish made with crisp cucumbers and sweet onions, marinated in a vinegar solution. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light salad.

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Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cucumbers, onions, Salad, vinegar

Prep Time: 15

Total Time: 1

Servings: servings

Calories: 50kcal

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 cup white vinegar Choose a good quality vinegar for the best flavor.
1 cup water Filtered water is preferred.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar Adjust to taste for sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt Sea salt or kosher salt works well.
1 teaspoon black peppercorns Whole peppercorns add a nice flavor.
1 teaspoon dill seeds Optional, for added flavor.

For the Vegetables

2 medium cucumbers Sliced thinly; English cucumbers are preferred for less seeds.
1 medium red onion Thinly sliced; red onion adds a nice color and sweetness.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and dill seeds. Whisk together until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. This step is crucial as it ensures the marinade is well-balanced and flavorful.
Taste the marinade and adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the cucumbers and onions marinate.

Prepare the Vegetables

Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) and place them in a large mixing bowl. Thin slices allow for better absorption of the marinade.
Next, slice the red onion thinly and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. The combination of cucumbers and onions creates a delightful crunch and flavor.

Combine and Marinate

Pour the prepared marinade over the cucumbers and onions in the mixing bowl. Gently toss to ensure all the vegetables are well-coated in the marinade.
Transfer the mixture to a glass jar or container with a lid. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly.

Serve

After marinating, give the jar a gentle shake or stir to redistribute the marinade. Serve chilled as a side dish or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the crispness and tanginess!

Notes

This dish can be made a day in advance for even more flavor. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will release some water, which will dilute the marinade slightly, but it will still be delicious.

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