Cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe was a summer staple in my Southern kitchen growing up. I can still picture the glass bowl in the fridge filled with crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and a sharp, tangy vinegar brine. It was always there, tucked next to a jar of green onions, ready to hit the table at BBQs, potlucks, or just quiet family dinners.
My mama made it in minutes nothing fancy, just a few ingredients and a lot of love. It’s that same simple recipe I’m sharing today. Quick to prep, full of crunch, and packed with flavor, this dish brings back the kind of comfort food memories that never fade.
Table of Contents
Don’t miss our tomato cucumber mozzarella salad recipe if you love easy summer sides.
The Charm of Old-Fashioned Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar
A Humble Recipe With Generations of Flavor
The cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe isn’t just a summer side it’s a Southern tradition. This dish, often called quick pickles or refrigerator pickles, has graced picnic tables and back porches for decades. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t need much. A few garden-fresh cucumbers, a sweet onion, a splash of vinegar, and time in the fridge. That’s it.
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Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar Recipe: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 1hour 10minutes
- Yield: 2.5 cups 1x
Description
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup distilled white vinegar or white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup very warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon table salt (1 teaspoon Kosher salt)
- 2 large cucumbers or one large English cucumber (2 cups sliced)
- ½ cup sweet onion slivers half of a small onion
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a medium size bowl.
- Peel the cucumbers. If cucumbers are large, you can remove seeds. (If using English cucumbers, no need to peel or seed.) See NOTE below.
- Slice the cucumbers about ⅛ to ¼-inch thick. Add the cucumber and onions to the vinegar mixture and stir gently.
- Cover and chill in the fridge at least 2 hours to marinate or “pickle”. The longer they marinate, the more flavor the cucumber and onions absorb. Serve with a slotted spoon.
Sprinkle with black pepper, if you like.
Notes
Pro Tip: Use room temperature to slightly warm water to help melt the salt and sugar.
Option to seed cucumbers: If your cucumbers have large seeds in them, you can slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds by raking a small spoon down the middle. Slice the cucumber halves to create half-moon shapes.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Creamy Cucumber Salad – Replace vinegar, water, sugar and salt with Ranch dressing or Greek yogurt and fresh dill.
- Store-bought vinaigrette – Marinate sliced cucumbers with a simple olive oil vinaigrette.
- Red Onion- Red onions are fairly sweet and add color and flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar- I’m a huge fan of apple cider vinegar and the extra flavor it adds to recipes, but be aware that it discolors the white onion and light colored cucumbers, slightly.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: 7kcal
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 1.5g
- Fiber: 0.4g
It’s easy, reliable, and full of down-home charm. Whether passed down in a handwritten cookbook or taught in a steamy kitchen by your grandma, this recipe holds a special place in many families.
Why It Belongs at Every Summer BBQ
This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe fits right in with summer grilling. The vinegar’s tang cuts through rich meats like ribs or fried chicken. The crisp texture refreshes your plate and balances the heat. It’s light, flavorful, and always welcome next to baked beans or deviled eggs.
And best of all? You can make it ahead, stash it in the fridge, and forget about it until it’s time to eat. It only gets better with time.
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What Makes This Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar Recipe So Special
Simple Ingredients, Big Southern Flavor
One of the best things about a cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is how few ingredients it takes to create something so flavorful. You won’t need anything fancy just pantry staples and fresh produce. Most versions include white vinegar, warm water, sugar, salt, two large cucumbers, and a sweet onion.
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, grab your cucumbers right off the vine. Otherwise, English cucumbers from the store work great too. They’re crisp, seedless, and don’t require peeling, which makes prep even easier.
This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks. It takes less than 10 minutes to put together, but the result tastes like something you’d find at a Southern family reunion.
Old-Fashioned Meets Quick-Pickle Convenience
Traditionally, cucumber and onion salads were marinated for hours, sometimes overnight. That’s still true today, but now we call it a quick pickle. Thanks to refrigeration, your cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe can be ready to serve in as little as 2 hours.
And while old-fashioned versions used basic white vinegar, feel free to try white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for extra dimension. The acidity still balances perfectly with the sweet onion and fresh cucumber, giving every bite that classic zing.
Whether you’re prepping for a cookout or tossing together a quick dinner, this recipe brings convenience without losing any of the traditional Southern flavor.
Don’t miss our spicy cucumber salad recipe if you want to turn up the heat!
Step-by-Step – How to Make Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar
Prepping Cucumbers and Onions for the Best Flavor
The beauty of this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is how quickly it comes together with just a few simple steps. Start with your ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers or 1 English cucumber
- ½ cup thinly sliced sweet onion
- ⅓ cup distilled white vinegar or white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Fresh black pepper to taste
Peel the cucumbers unless you’re using English or burpless varieties. If your cucumbers have large seeds, slice them lengthwise and scoop them out. Use a mandolin or a sharp knife to cut them into ⅛ to ¼-inch thick rounds. The onions should be sliced paper-thin, allowing them to absorb the vinegar and mellow out in flavor.
This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is all about balance crunchy texture, mild sweetness, and that signature tang.
Creating the Pickling Brine
In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, warm water, salt, and sugar. The warm water helps dissolve everything evenly. Pour this pickling liquid over your prepared cucumbers and onions. Make sure they’re completely covered.
Whether you use a large jar with a tight lid or a covered bowl, refrigerate your cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let them marinate overnight.
This dish works well as a make-ahead side, and it only gets better the longer it sits. The cucumbers stay crisp while the onions soften and soak up the brine, creating a light yet zesty bite.
Discover great ideas like this cucumber lemon recipe if you love refreshing dishes with tangy notes.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
What makes this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe so reliable is its flexibility. You can serve it on its own, pair it with grilled meats, or even toss it into a sandwich or wrap. The acidity from the vinegar balances out heavier dishes, while the cucumber adds a fresh, cooling crunch.
For extra flavor, sprinkle in fresh dill or a pinch of red pepper flakes before refrigerating. You can even use the leftover brine to pickle other vegetables.
No matter how you serve it, this classic cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Storage, Shelf Life & Food Safety Tips
How Long Will Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar Last in the Refrigerator?
One reason this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is a go-to for busy home cooks is how well it stores. Kept in the fridge in an airtight container, this marinated salad can last up to two full weeks. That makes it perfect for meal prep, BBQs, and last-minute sides.
Over time, the cucumbers retain their crunch while the onions mellow and soak up the vinegar. The longer they sit, the deeper the flavor gets. It’s a dish that actually improves with age. For best results, allow the cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe to chill for at least two hours before serving. If you have more time, let it rest overnight to let the brine fully infuse the vegetables.
To keep it fresh and safe to eat, always use a clean spoon when serving. Avoid dipping in with your fingers or used utensils this helps prevent bacteria and keeps the salad crisp.
Proper Storage Tips for Best Results
Glass containers are ideal for this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe. Vinegar can react with metal, so skip the metal bowls or lids. A large glass jar or a Mason jar with a tight seal works great. Not only does it keep everything fresh, but it also makes it easy to serve.
Always store the salad below 40°F to ensure food safety. If you’re bringing it to a picnic or cookout, pack it in a cooler and keep it chilled until serving time.
This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is a fridge-friendly side dish that just gets better with time and that’s one more reason to always keep a batch on hand.
Don’t miss our cucumber lemon recipe for another light and refreshing refrigerator-friendly dish.
Health Perks of This Marinated Cucumber Onion Salad
What Are the Benefits of Eating Cucumber and Onion Together?
Not only is this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe tasty, it’s surprisingly good for you too. Naturally hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers are also nutrient-rich, offering a healthy dose of potassium and vitamin K. They help with hydration and can support healthy digestion. Onions, on the other hand, are full of antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation and boost your immune system.
When combined, cucumbers and onions create a refreshing side that complements heavy dishes without weighing you down. You’re getting fiber, hydration, and flavor all in one easy dish.
Not only do white and apple cider vinegars enhance taste, but they’re also linked to better blood sugar control and a healthier gut microbiome. The tangy bite of vinegar enhances the vegetables without needing creamy or calorie-heavy dressings.
Is the Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar Recipe Keto Friendly?
Yes, with one simple tweak, this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe can fit into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Just leave out the sugar. The flavor stays bright and tangy, but without any added carbs. You can even add a pinch of crushed red pepper or fresh dill to keep things flavorful without compromising your macros.
It’s a guilt-free option for cookouts, lunchboxes, or a light dinner side. And since it’s made without mayo or dairy, it’s also naturally vegan and gluten-free.
If you’re looking for other clean and crisp summer options, check out our salmon cucumber salad for a high-protein companion dish.
Whether you’re eating low-cal, keto, or just love a healthy crunch, this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe hits all the marks.
Vinegar Science – Why Vinegar Transforms Cucumbers and Onions
What Happens When You Add Onions to Vinegar?
In a classic cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe, the vinegar softens the onions and tones down their sharpness. The acid gently breaks apart strong compounds, making the onions taste milder, sweeter, and much easier to enjoy raw.
It also helps preserve them naturally, which is why this dish lasts for days in the fridge while still tasting fresh.
Why Add Cucumbers to Vinegar?
Cucumbers are full of water, so they soak up the vinegar quickly. This gives them a clean, tangy flavor and boosts their crunch. That’s what makes this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe so refreshing and addictive.
You can use different vinegars like white wine or apple cider vinegar for more flavor, but the classic version keeps things simple and bright.
Want a fruity spin? Try our pineapple cucumber salad.
This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe works because of how vinegar transforms both ingredients making them last longer and taste better.
Variations, Substitutions, and Flavor Boosters
Make It Creamy or Spicy
One great thing about the cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily switch things up based on your taste or what you have on hand.
Love a creamier salad? Swap the vinegar brine for a mix of Greek yogurt or ranch dressing with a bit of fresh dill. This version still gives you the crunch but adds richness.
Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the vinegar. The spice plays well with the cool cucumber and balances out sweeter onions.
Try Fresh Herbs, Veggies, or Cheese
Boost the flavor by tossing in a few sprigs of fresh herbs like dill, mint, parsley, or oregano. These add brightness and turn your cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe into something extra special.
You can also mix in other crisp veggies like radishes, carrots, or even bell peppers. They’ll soak up the brine just like cucumbers do. Thinly sliced red onions also bring great color and a bit of sweetness.
For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle in crumbled feta and use red wine vinegar. It’s perfect for potlucks or summer dinners on the patio.
Don’t miss our tomato cucumber mozzarella salad for another simple way to remix fresh veggies with bold flavors.
With just a few small changes, your cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe can go from traditional to totally new without much effort.
How to Serve Cucumbers and Onions in Vinegar
Perfect Pairings for Every Meal
The beauty of the cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is how well it pairs with just about anything. This crisp, tangy salad is a natural fit for classic cookout foods like burgers, grilled chicken, and ribs. Its acidity cuts through rich flavors, making heavier dishes feel lighter.
You can also serve it with fried chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf. It brings balance to the plate and adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
At summer gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires zero fuss. Just pull it from the fridge and place it on the table no reheating, no dressing to whip up, and no mayo to spoil in the heat.
Unexpected Ways to Enjoy It
Aside from being a side dish, this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe also works great in other dishes. Layer it into sandwiches for added crunch. Toss it over a grain bowl or spoon it onto fish tacos for an acidic kick.
Hosting a brunch? Use it as a topping for avocado toast or pair it with smoked salmon for something light and flavorful.
It’s also a smart move to prep it in advance for weekly meal planning. Just keep it sealed and chilled, and it’ll stay crisp for up to two weeks.
Check out our spicy cucumber salad if you want to serve a bolder version at your next BBQ.
This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe fits into almost any mealtime situation from Sunday suppers to picnic baskets. It’s simple, adaptable, and always delivers on taste.
Conclusion
There’s something timeless about a good cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe. It’s light, crisp, and brings a punch of flavor without needing fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a side for BBQ chicken or a quick addition to lunch, this simple salad always earns a spot on the table.
With only a few ingredients vinegar, cucumbers, sweet onions, and a touch of salt you can create a dish that feels homemade, wholesome, and refreshingly bright. It’s that mix of tang and crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
You don’t need to dress it up, but you can. Toss in fresh herbs, add spice, or even layer it into sandwiches. The best part? You can make it ahead and let it chill until you’re ready to serve it only gets better over time.
If you’ve never tried this classic cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe, now’s the time. And if it’s a regular in your fridge already, don’t be afraid to make a double batch.
FAQ Section
How long will cucumbers and onions in vinegar last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Over time, the flavor gets even stronger as the vegetables continue to marinate in the vinegar brine. For best results, use a clean utensil each time to prevent spoilage.
What does putting onions in vinegar do?
Vinegar helps mellow the sharp flavor of raw onions by breaking down their strong compounds. In this cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe, the vinegar softens the onions and brings out their natural sweetness making them much more pleasant and flavorful.
What are the benefits of eating cucumber and onion together?
Cucumbers are hydrating and rich in nutrients, while onions are packed with antioxidants. When combined, they create a light, refreshing salad that’s low in calories and big on crunch. This cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe delivers both taste and health benefits in one bowl.
Why do people put cucumbers in vinegar?
People use vinegar to add tang and preserve the freshness of cucumbers. It enhances flavor, boosts crunch, and helps the salad last longer in the fridge. This is why the cucumbers and onions in vinegar recipe is such a classic it’s flavorful, simple, and lasts for days.