Salt and Vinegar Cucumbers

Photos by Joe Lingeman

When you’re in need of something crisp and refreshing alongside whatever you’re serving — be it grilled shrimp or a roast chicken — let this be your go-to dish. Quick-pickled cucumbers and plenty of dill join forces in a classic salad that’s tangy and bright.

It’s a recipe that requires very little of you, aside from a bit of slicing and chopping, and since it gets better with a night’s rest, it’s a make-ahead dream. So there’s really no reason not to add it to your repertoire.

Quick-Pickled Cucumbers That Get Better with Age

The salad is essentially just a big ol’ bowl of quick-pickled cucumbers, which is exactly why it’s so tasty. There are so many mains — like burgers, steak, fish, chicken, and even crispy tofu — that could use the bright, vinegary kick that it brings.

While the salad comes together fast, the secret to making it special is to let it sit so the ingredients can mingle and soak into the cucumber slices. If all you have is 30 minutes, that will be enough time; if you can let it sit overnight, that’s even better. That quality makes this salad a solid make-ahead solution for potlucks and barbecues. Assemble it the night before and it will be perfect when it’s finally time to eat.

Salt and Vinegar Cucumbers

Yield: Serves 4 to 6 as a side dish

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  
• 1 1/4 teaspoons flaky sea salt, plus more as needed
  
• Freshly ground black pepper
  
• 2 pounds cucumbers (about 4 medium)
  
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
  

Instructions

1. Place the vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl and whisk to combine.

2. Slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Place them in the bowl, add the dill, and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the flavors to come together. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Sheela Prakash received her master's degree from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy and is also a Registered Dietitian. She is the author of “Mediterranean Every Day.”