Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and elegant side dish that’s all about clean flavors and satisfying crunch. With thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, a light vinegar dressing, and fresh herbs, this salad is perfect for warm days or as a cool contrast to richer main dishes.

It’s the kind of timeless recipe that’s easy to prepare, pairs with just about everything, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What Is Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad?

This salad features English cucumbers sliced paper-thin and marinated in a simple vinaigrette made with vinegar, sugar, salt, and fresh dill. The result is a crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet salad that’s both cooling and flavorful.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad

Light and refreshing – Perfect for hot weather or rich meals
Quick to prepare – Just slice, mix, and chill
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – Pantry staples shine here
Make-ahead friendly – Gets better as it sits
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free – Great for a variety of diets
Elegant yet rustic – Ideal for both casual and formal meals
Great for meal prep – Holds well in the fridge for several days

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad

2 large English cucumbers (or 4 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced
½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
¼ cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or to taste)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Slice the cucumbers and onions

Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the cucumbers and red onion as thinly as possible. This helps them absorb the dressing quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Make the dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Combine and toss

Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl. Toss well to coat the vegetables evenly in the dressing.

Step 4: Add dill and chill

Fold in the chopped fresh dill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Toss again before serving.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Cucumber Salad

Grilled salmon or chicken – Light and flavorful pairing
Pulled pork or ribs – A cool contrast to smoky meat
Feta or goat cheese crumbles – Adds creamy tang
Roasted potatoes or baked sweet potatoes – Balances richness
Crusty bread or pita – Great for soaking up the dressing
Falafel or chickpea patties – Mediterranean match
Lentil or quinoa bowls – Adds crunch and brightness

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Cucumber Salad

Use English or Persian cucumbers – They’re seedless and less watery
Slice thinly and evenly – Helps texture and flavor absorption
Chill before serving – Improves crunch and flavor
Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste – For a sharper or sweeter profile
Don’t skip the dill – It adds the signature herbaceous note
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes – For a mild kick
Use a mandoline for uniform slices – Speeds up prep and improves presentation

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Cucumber Salad

Add cherry tomatoes – For color and sweetness
Use rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar – For subtle flavor changes
Include a touch of garlic or shallots – Adds depth
Top with toasted sesame seeds – For a nutty crunch
Add Greek yogurt or sour cream – To make it creamy
Stir in fresh mint or parsley – To complement or replace dill
Toss with crumbled feta or olives – For a Greek-inspired version

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Cucumber Salad

Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Best within 2–3 days
Toss again before serving – To redistribute dressing
Drain excess liquid if needed – Cucumbers may release water over time
Keep chilled until ready to serve – For best texture
Avoid freezing – Cucumbers will lose texture when thawed

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad

No reheating required – Best served cold or at room temperature
Let sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving – Enhances flavor
Stir before serving – To mix dressing and redistribute ingredients
Use freshly chopped herbs if storing long – To preserve brightness

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 60
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

A healthy, low-calorie side dish with refreshing crunch and zesty flavor.

FAQs

How long does Ina Garten’s cucumber salad last in the fridge?

Ina Garten’s cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. For the best texture, serve within 24 hours as cucumbers release moisture over time.

Can I make cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, cucumber salad can be made a few hours ahead. In fact, letting it chill enhances the flavor. Just toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

What kind of cucumbers does Ina Garten use in her cucumber salad?

Ina Garten prefers English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers because they have thin skins, fewer seeds, and a crisp texture that holds up well in salads.

Why is my cucumber salad watery?

Cucumbers naturally release water after being sliced. To reduce excess moisture, slice them thin and let them sit with a pinch of salt before mixing with the dressing, or serve soon after assembling.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Cucumber Salad is a crisp, clean, and versatile dish that delivers big flavor with very little effort. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just need a quick side for dinner. Simple ingredients, classic flavor, and Ina’s trusted technique make this salad a standout.