Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar – A Simple & Refreshing Salad

On a hot summer afternoon, when the kitchen feels like a sauna and appetite is low, I always crave something cold, crunchy, and a little tangy. That’s where this Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar recipe comes in. It’s refreshing, quick, and packed with flavor like air-conditioning for your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Salad

Ready in 10 Minutes

You don’t need to turn on the stove. Everything comes together in one bowl, in about the time it takes to clean up your cutting board. It’s truly a no-fuss, no-sweat kind of dish.

Mediterranean-Inspired and Full of Flavor

This isn’t just Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar tossed together. Chickpeas bring creamy texture, tomatoes add juiciness, herbs brighten it up, and a lemony vinaigrette ties it all together. The flavors dance cool, tangy, salty, herby. Every bite feels alive.

Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and High in Plant Protein

With chickpeas and feta, this salad is satisfying enough for lunch. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a hearty, plant-based meal. And since it’s naturally gluten-free, it’s friendly for many diets.

Key Ingredients and Simple Substitutions

Chickpeas: Plant Protein Powerhouse

One can of chickpeas brings 8 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving. Just rinse them well before using. They soak up the dressing beautifully, especially after a short rest in the fridge.

Crisp Cucumbers and Red Onions in Vinegar

The cucumbers bring that signature crunch. Persian cucumbers are ideal, but one English cucumber works fine too. And that red onion? When soaked briefly in vinegar and lemon juice, it loses its bite and becomes sweet and sharp like quick pickles.

Fresh Herbs: Dill and Parsley Boost Flavor

Fresh parsley and dill make this salad sing. If you don’t have both, use more of one. Dried dill works in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.

Tangy Dressing: Olive Oil, Lemon, and Vinegar

The mix of olive oil, vinegar, and lemon gives this salad its zing. You can use either white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. I’ve done both, and they’re equally tasty.

Optional Add-ins: Feta, Avocado, Dijon, or Spices

Crumbled feta adds salty creaminess. You can also swap it for diced avocado if going dairy-free. For more zip, stir in a bit of Dijon mustard. Want heat? Try a pinch of red pepper flakes.

How to Make Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar with Chickpeas

Step 1: Prep the Veggies and Chickpeas

Rinse and drain your chickpeas. Dice your cucumbers and tomatoes. Chop the red onion, parsley, and dill. If the onion feels too strong, soak it in lemon juice while prepping the rest.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing Separately

In a small bowl or jar, whisk olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This gives everything a balanced flavor before it hits the salad.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions to create your Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar base. Pour the dressing over and toss gently. Everything should glisten with that tangy mix.

Step 4: Finish with Feta (Optional)

Crumble in the feta last and toss gently again. If you’re making this ahead, wait to add the feta until just before serving to keep the texture fresh.

Easy Variations and Add-Ons

Make It Vegan or Spicy

Skip the feta and use diced avocado or a spoonful of tahini for creaminess. For a little fire, add chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne.

Add Crunch or Extra Protein

Chopped bell peppers, cauliflower florets, or even broccoli give it extra crunch. Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or shrimp.

Customize the Dressing

Add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for tang or a drizzle of honey for sweetness. You can also use red wine vinegar or balsamic if that’s what’s on hand.

Storage Tips and Meal Prep Advice

Meal Prep Notes for Busy Weeks

This Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar salad holds up well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge If making ahead, store the feta separately and mix it in before serving. It’s a great packed lunch or quick side for dinner.

Dietitian Notes & Health Benefits

Gut and Brain Support from Chickpeas

Chickpeas are full of fiber and B vitamins, including B6 and B12, which support gut health and brain function. They also help keep you full longer.

Heart-Healthy Fats and Hydrating Veggies

With olive oil and cucumbers, this salad hydrates and nourishes at once. Olive oil offers monounsaturated fats that support heart health.

Gluten-Free and Great for Plant-Based Diets

It checks off a lot of boxes vegetarian, gluten-free, and rich in plants. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for vegan or dairy-free eating.

FAQs

More Such Recipes

Love this kind of crunchy, refreshing salad? Try this creamy cucumber and tomato salad for a cool, yogurt-based option. Or check out cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce for something with heat and bold flavor. You’ll also enjoy this marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad if you like tangy, make-ahead dishes. And for a simple twist, see this cucumber vinegar salad light and easy.

Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar with Chickpeas – Recipe Card

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Final Thoughts

This Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar dish is a summer staple in my kitchen.. It’s flexible, quick, and full of life. Play around with the flavors and make it yours. And if you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you added or changed. Drop a comment or tag me on Pinterest or Facebook. Your versions always inspire the next recipe!