Cucumber Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Name: Cucumber Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 orange; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Food Recipes

I love whipping up this Cucumber Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette on sunny days! The refreshing crunch of cucumbers paired with the bright notes of citrus makes it the perfect side dish for any summer meal. When I created this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of summer in every bite. The combination of lemon and orange in the vinaigrette adds a delightful zing that elevates the simple ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, taking just a few minutes, and it never fails to impress my guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:01:27.839Z

Creating this Cucumber Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette was an experimental delight. I wanted a dish that was not only refreshing but also vibrant in flavor. After trying various dressings, I discovered that the acidity from citrus fruits perfectly complements the cool, crisp cucumber. This balance makes it a great pairing with grilled meats or seafood during summer gatherings.

What makes this recipe special is how easily it can be adjusted. If you like a bit of heat, a few slices of jalapeño can add a nice kick! I've also experimented with adding herbs like mint or basil, which take the flavors to another level.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The refreshing crunch of cucumbers combined with a zesty vinaigrette
A perfect side dish that complements grilled meats beautifully
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights

Understanding Ingredients

The key to a delightful Cucumber Salad lies in the freshness of the cucumbers. Opt for firm, crisp ones to ensure a satisfying crunch. English cucumbers are ideal for this recipe due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, enhancing both texture and aesthetics. Pay attention when slicing; uniform thickness helps the salad look appealing and ensures even marination, providing that perfect bite every time.

The choice of red onion adds a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the citrus vinaigrette. However, if the raw taste of red onion is too strong for you, soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their flavor. This slight adjustment can make a significant difference in the overall harmony of flavors in the salad.

Perfecting the Vinaigrette

Creating the citrus vinaigrette is a key step that enhances the salad's brightness. When juicing the lemon and orange, be sure to roll them on the counter to release more juice. Using freshly squeezed juice adds vibrant flavor compared to store-bought alternatives. If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, adjust the amount of honey according to your taste—the goal is to achieve a well-balanced flavor profile that complements the salad's fresh ingredients.

Whisking the vinaigrette until it emulsifies can help achieve a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the salad. Ideally, you want to see a slight thickening as the oil combines with the juices. If it separates after standing, a quick re-whisk will bring it back together, ensuring a smooth coating over the cucumbers and other vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Citrus Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have your ingredients, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.

Make the vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and serve

Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are coated. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.

Enjoy this refreshing and tangy salad as a perfect side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding feta cheese or avocado to your salad. You can also customize the vinaigrette by experimenting with different citrus fruits!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Cucumber Salad is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can slice the cucumbers and onions a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, preferably in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. However, wait to mix in the vinaigrette until just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming too soggy.

The citrus vinaigrette can also be prepared a day ahead, making it convenient for busy days. Simply whisk together the ingredients and store in the fridge. Just remember to give it a quick stir before using as it may separate over time.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast. The bright citrus notes also complement Mediterranean dishes beautifully, so consider adding it to a mezze platter with hummus and pita.

For a twist, add crumbled feta or sliced avocado for an added layer of creaminess. If you're in the mood for a more filling dish, serve it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens, turning your side salad into a light and nutritious main course.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots for more color and texture.

→ How long will leftover salad last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, the cucumbers may become slightly softer over time.

→ Can I make the vinaigrette without honey?

Yes, you can omit honey or replace it with a sugar substitute or maple syrup for a vegan option.