This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This single serving cucumber salad is a perfect example of simple food done right. Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions are tossed in a light and flavorful vinaigrette, making for a light salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
This cucumber salad makes a refreshing meal by itself, or pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try it alongside flavorful Baked Cod, savory Crab Cakes, tender Baked Ribs, aromatic Jerk Chicken, or juicy Baked Chicken Tenders for a delightful combination.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes minutes to make.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and low in calories.
- Flavorful: The tangy vinaigrette complements the coolness of the cucumbers perfectly.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch on its own.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect as a single large serving or two smaller ones, it’s ideal for any meal size. Plus, it’s easily adjustable for more guests.
RELATED: The Best Single Serving Summer Recipes
Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this cucumber salad recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Cucumber: The star of the show, cucumbers add crunch and freshness. If you prefer, try using English cucumbers for a seedless option. Extra cucumbers can be added to a Greek Chicken Bowl, Tabbouleh, or a Shrimp Quinoa Bowl.
- Onion: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Red onions can be a great substitute for a splash of color and milder taste.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors.
- Olive Oil: Gives a smooth, rich base to the dressing. Avocado oil is a great alternative.
- Vinegar: White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work well.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the tanginess. Honey or agave nectar are excellent natural sweeteners to try.
- Fresh Dill: Brings a herby freshness. Feel free to experiment with parsley or mint for a different flavor profile. Consider using any extra dill on a Smoked Salmon Platter.
Recipe Variations
This cucumber salad is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing for a spicy cucumber salad.
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy element.
- Protein Punch: Toss in some chickpeas or cooked chicken.
How To Make A Cucumber Salad
Slice the cucumber and onion thinly, then place them in a bowl. In a separate container, mix the vinaigrette ingredients together. Pour this dressing over the cucumber and onion slices, tossing them to ensure they’re evenly coated.
Despite its simplicity and few ingredients, this cucumber salad is far from lacking in taste. The zesty dressing brings a burst of flavor to the crisp veggies.
Not only is this salad packed with flavor, but it’s also a healthier choice. It’s a light and fresh option, not weighed down by a creamy dressing. For those cutting down on sugar, honey or another alternative sweetener can be used.
RELATED: Best Soup Recipes For One
Expert Tips
- Slice Thinly: For the best texture, thinly slice your cucumbers and onions. This allows them to absorb the dressing better.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes lets the flavors meld wonderfully.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar, salt, or vinegar to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh dill for the most vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, dried dill works too.
- Stay Crunchy: To keep the cucumbers crisp, mix them with the dressing just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Sure! Try chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
Looking For More Single Serving Salad Inspiration?
Here are some delicious and easy single serving salad options to explore:
- Cobb Salad: A hearty combination of greens, chicken, bacon, avocado, hard-boiled egg, and blue cheese crumbles.
- Italian Pasta Salad: Pasta tossed with salami, broccoli, olives, and a light Italian dressing.
- Spinach and Orzo Salad: Packed with nutrients, this salad features spinach, orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Avocado Salad: Made with creamy avocado, juicy berries, pecans or walnuts, and a sweet blueberry vinaigrette.
- Taco Salad: Seasoned ground beef, black beans, colorful vegetables, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Caprese Chicken Salad: Mozzarella, tomatoes, cooked chicken, and fragrant basil drizzled with an olive oil vinaigrette.
- Lentil Salad: Lentils, onions and garlic, and a tangy dressing make for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
RELATED: 20 Single Serving Meatless Meals
For more information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.
Cucumber Salad For One
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber
- ¼ small sweet onion
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt plus more as needed
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the cucumber and onion into thin pieces, then place them into a bowl.
- In a small separate bowl, mix the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt together by whisking them. Once combined, drizzle this mixture over the cucumber and onion slices in the other bowl.
- Lastly, scatter the dill over the salad and gently mix everything together.
Notes
- Slice Thinly: For the best texture, thinly slice your cucumbers and onions. This allows them to absorb the dressing better.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes lets the flavors meld wonderfully.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar, salt, or vinegar to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh dill for the most vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, dried dill works too.
- Stay Crunchy: To keep the cucumbers crisp, mix them with the dressing just before serving.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
I just love these cucumbers! I double the sugar Personal preference I use the dressing on lettuce salad too
Made it several times.. good for anytime of the year. It goes well with my chicken or weiner schnitzel.
This is wonderful! I chill it before I eat it. So refreshing for the warm summer.
I agree. Thanks so much, Annabelle!
Joanie