Crisp & Tangy Marinated Cucumber Salad (Jar Salad)

 Description

This crisp & tangy marinated cucumber salad is a refreshing make-ahead recipe packed with crunchy cucumbers, red onions, fresh dill, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Stored in a mason jar, the flavors deepen as it chills, making it perfect for meal prep, picnics, BBQs, or a healthy side dish. Ready in minutes and naturally light, this salad is fresh, crisp, and incredibly flavorful.

 Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

 Instructions

 Step 1: Slice the Vegetables

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin, even rounds. Thinly slice the red onion and finely mince the garlic. Chop the fresh dill.

 Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl or mason jar, combine:

• White vinegar
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Dijon mustard (if using)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Whisk or shake until everything is well blended.

 Step 3: Assemble the Jar

Place the sliced cucumbers, onions, garlic, and dill into a large mason jar or airtight container.

 Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the prepared marinade over the vegetables until evenly coated.

 Step 5: Mix

Seal the jar tightly and gently shake it for about 20–30 seconds so every cucumber slice is coated with the dressing.

 Step 6: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor let it marinate overnight.

 Step 7: Serve

Shake or stir the salad before serving. Enjoy it chilled as a refreshing side dish.

 Tips

• The thinner the cucumber slices, the better they absorb the marinade.
• English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds.
• Add sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes for extra color.
• For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle with crumbled feta before serving.
• Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
 Yes! It actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Q: Can I use regular cucumbers?
 Absolutely. Peel them first if the skin is thick.

Q: Can I make it sugar-free?
 Yes. Omit the honey or use your preferred sugar-free sweetener.

 Servings

4 servings

 Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

 Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 95
• Protein: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg