Traditional Ukrainian Easy Cucumber Salad with Vinegar

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make
• Crisp, refreshing texture
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect side dish for many meals
• Naturally gluten-free
• Budget-friendly recipe
• Light and flavorful
• Traditional Ukrainian favorite

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad

• 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
3. Place the cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add the sliced red onion and chopped fresh dill.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
7. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
8. Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
9. Toss once more before serving.
10. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rest Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Sour Cream Version: Add a few tablespoons of sour cream for a creamier Ukrainian-style salad.
• Garlic Cucumber Salad: Mix in a minced garlic clove.
• Tomato Cucumber Salad: Add sliced tomatoes for extra freshness.
• Sweet Onion Version: Use sweet onions instead of red onions.
• Herb Variation: Add parsley or chives alongside the dill.
• Spicy Cucumber Salad: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Radish Cucumber Salad: Add thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

This salad is served cold and should not be reheated.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then combine shortly before serving for maximum crispness.

FAQs

What makes this salad Ukrainian?

Simple cucumber salads with vinegar, dill, and onions are common side dishes throughout Ukrainian cuisine.

What type of cucumbers work best?

English cucumbers, Persian cucumbers, or fresh garden cucumbers are all excellent choices.

Can I use dried dill?

Fresh dill is recommended for the most authentic flavor, but dried dill can be used if necessary.

Is apple cider vinegar a good substitute?

Yes. Apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweeter flavor and works very well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it is best enjoyed within a few hours for maximum crunch.

Why does the salad become watery?

Cucumbers naturally release moisture as they sit in the dressing.

Can I add tomatoes?

Absolutely. Tomatoes are a popular addition to cucumber salads throughout Eastern Europe.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes. The recipe is naturally vegan as written.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, grilled meats, soups, fish, and traditional Ukrainian dishes.

Can I reduce the vinegar?

Yes. Adjust the vinegar amount to suit your personal taste preferences.

Conclusion

Traditional Ukrainian Easy Cucumber Salad with Vinegar is a crisp, refreshing side dish that proves simple ingredients can create wonderful flavor. Fresh cucumbers, dill, onions, and a light vinegar dressing come together in minutes to make a versatile salad that complements countless meals. Whether served at a family gathering or alongside a weeknight dinner, this classic Ukrainian recipe is a timeless favorite that delivers freshness in every bite.

Traditional Ukrainian Easy Cucumber Salad with Vinegar

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Traditional Ukrainian Easy Cucumber Salad with Vinegar is a crisp and refreshing side dish featuring fresh cucumbers, dill, and onions tossed in a light tangy dressing. Simple, flavorful, and quick to prepare, it pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cook
• Cuisine: Ukrainian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 3 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the sliced red onion and chopped fresh dill.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
6. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. Let the salad rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
8. Toss once more before serving.
9. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• Fresh dill provides the most authentic flavor.
• English, Persian, or garden cucumbers all work well.
• Add sliced tomatoes for a traditional variation.
• Mix in a spoonful of sour cream for a creamier version.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• The salad is best enjoyed shortly after preparation for maximum crunch.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 85 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 310 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg