20 Delicious Cucumber Salad Recipes You Must Try in 2025

When the sun’s blazing and the last thing you want is a hot kitchen, cucumber salads come to the rescue. They’re cool, crisp, and downright refreshing.

Whether prepping for a BBQ, packing a picnic, or just craving a light dinner, these cucumber salad recipes are easy, delicious, and versatile.

Ready to jazz up your side dishes? Here are 20 amazing cucumber salad ideas to make your summer feel like a breeze.

1. Asian Cucumber Salad

Asian cucumber salad offers crunch, tang, and just the right hint of spice. It’s a refreshing go-to side dish, primarily when serving grilled meat or a bowl of noodles.

Thin cucumber slices are soaked in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic. The dressing is light yet packs a bold umami flavor.

To make it shine:

• Use seedless cucumbers for better crunch.
• Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
• Add a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.

Optional add-ins: Thin carrot strips, crushed peanuts, or scallions give it more texture and a pop of color.

This dish feels fancy but is super simple. It’s ready in under 10 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights and lazy summer weekends.

2. Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber tomato salad is like summer in a bowl. It’s juicy and crisp and comes together in just a few minutes. This version uses everyday ingredients you probably already have, and it pairs beautifully with grilled food, sandwiches, or even pasta dishes.

You only need:

• Cucumbers (sliced)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Red onion (sliced thin)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt & pepper

Chop, mix, and you’re done! Want to level it up? Add some crumbled feta or chopped basil. This salad also works well for meal prep—keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

3. Creamy Cucumber Salad

Creamy cucumber salad is a cool and cozy classic—a staple at Southern BBQs and potlucks. Its tangy, herby dressing hugs every cucumber slice in a creamy blanket of goodness.

Here’s a quick peek at what you need:

Let it chill in the fridge before serving. The flavors meld and deepen, making it the perfect make-ahead salad. To balance the heat, serve alongside grilled burgers, meatloaf, or even spicy kebabs.

4. Korean Cucumber Salad

If you like bold, spicy flavors, Korean cucumber salad (Oi Muchim) will be your new obsession. It’s punchy, bright, and full of the signature Korean heat and sesame aroma.

You start by salting cucumber slices to draw out moisture. After 10 minutes, rinse and squeeze out the excess water. Then comes the magic—tossing them in a fiery dressing made from:

• Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• Soy sauce
• Garlic (minced)
• Sesame oil
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Sesame seeds

Simple, right? Yet each bite is crunchy, spicy, tangy, and nutty. This salad pairs beautifully with rice bowls, kimchi, grilled bulgogi, or a plain fried egg.

5. Cucumber Onion Salad

Cucumber onion salad is nostalgic and sharp—a Southern classic that cuts through rich BBQ flavors like a pro. It’s vinegary, slightly sweet, and addictively crunchy.

Here’s how to bring it to life:

• Cucumbers – peeled or unpeeled, your choice
• Onions – white or red, sliced thin
• Vinegar – white or apple cider
• Sugar – for balance
• Salt & pepper – just enough to pop the flavor

Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes (more is better). The onions will mellow out, and the cucumbers will soak up the dressing beautifully.

Serving tip: For a twist, add a few chili flakes or dill sprigs. This one’s always a hit at cookouts or with fried chicken.

6. Cucumber Dill Salad

There’s something incredibly refreshing about cucumber and dill together. This light, creamy salad is filled with bright herbal flavor. It’s the dish that makes you feel like you’re at a garden party—even if you’re just in your kitchen.

Start with thinly sliced cucumbers. Toss them in a dressing made with Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, and finely chopped fresh dill. Add salt, pepper, and a tiny touch of garlic powder to round things out.

Why it works:

• Dill gives it a fresh, slightly tangy kick.
• Yogurt or sour cream makes it creamy without being heavy.
• It goes well with grilled salmon, chicken, or vegetarian plates.

This salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together in just minutes.

Read details: Chill Out! Make This Cucumber Dill Salad Fast

7. Greek Cucumber Salad

Greek cucumber salad brings the Mediterranean to your table with just a few colorful ingredients. It’s crunchy, juicy, salty, and full of fresh flavor.

Let’s break down what makes it so good:

• Cucumber – crisp and cool
• Tomato – juicy and sweet
• Red onion – sharp but mellow when sliced thin
• Kalamata olives – briny and bold
• Feta cheese – crumbly, creamy perfection
• Olive oil + lemon juice – simple, zesty dressing
• Oregano – for that classic Greek flavor

You can eat this solo or pile it into a pita with hummus or grilled chicken. It’s super adaptable and perfect for summer lunch spreads or light dinners.

8. Cucumber Avocado Salad

Imagine the cool crunch of cucumber with the buttery softness of avocado. This salad is all about texture and balance. It’s one of those side dishes that can also double as a light meal.

To make it, dice up ripe avocados and gently toss them with chopped cucumbers, thin red onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. If you like a little heat, you can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Quick tips:

• Add the avocado last to avoid mushiness.
• Chill for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Use lime juice generously to keep the avocado from browning.

This salad doesn’t keep well, so eat it fresh. It’s a hit at taco night or with grilled fish.

9. Spicy Cucumber Salad

This salad is for the flavor chasers. Spicy cucumber salad is crisp and bold and gives you that satisfying heat that lingers without overwhelming. It’s perfect for BBQs or as a spicy pick-me-up snack.

First, lightly slice and salt your cucumbers to draw out excess water. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then rinse and drain. In a bowl, mix:

Toss everything together and let it sit for 5–10 minutes so the cucumbers soak up that spicy goodness. It’s the perfect crunchy-spicy combo.

10. Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Japanese cucumber salad, known as Sunomono, is light, clean, and refreshing. It is both a palate cleanser and a side dish.

Start by slicing cucumbers very thin. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out the excess water. Then, toss them in a dressing made of:

• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Soy sauce
• A pinch of salt

For a traditional touch, you can also sprinkle with sesame seeds or thinly sliced wakame (seaweed).

Why you’ll love it:

• No cooking required
• Just five ingredients
• Low-calorie and flavorful

This salad is a go-to with sushi, grilled fish, or noodle bowls. It’s minimalist in the best way possible.

11. Thai Cucumber Salad

If summer had a taste, this Thai cucumber salad might be a flavor bomb that’s sweet, sour, salty, and spicy all at once. It’s crisp, juicy, and surprisingly addictive.

You start with sliced cucumbers and build a bold dressing using lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Add some sliced red chili for heat and finish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for crunch and freshness.

Why it’s irresistible:

• Lime juice adds brightness
• Fish sauce gives umami
• Sugar balances the spice
• Peanuts = crunch
• Cilantro = fresh finish

This salad works wonderfully as a light side with Thai curry, grilled shrimp, or chicken satay. You can also turn it into a complete meal by tossing in cooked rice noodles or grilled tofu.

12. Cucumber Pasta Salad

Cucumber pasta salad is the lighter, crunchier cousin of the classic creamy version. It blends the soft bite of pasta with the refreshing snap of cucumber, making it a perfect BBQ side or meal prep option.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked bow-tie or fusilli pasta
• Sliced cucumber
• Cherry tomatoes
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Sliced red onion
• Italian dressing or basil pesto

Mix everything in a large bowl and chill for at least 30 minutes. The cucumbers help the pasta soak up the flavor while staying light and fresh. Toss in some olives or arugula for extra flavor!

13. Cucumber Vinegar Salad

This salad is as simple as it gets, but the flavor is sharp, tangy, and refreshing. It’s your go-to when you need something fast, light, and low-calorie.

Here’s a basic version in table form:

For a twist, you can add thin onion slices, fresh dill, or red chili flakes. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. It goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topper for tacos.

14. Lemon Cucumber Salad

This lemon cucumber salad is your quick, citrusy escape when it’s too hot to cook. The lemon zest and juice bring brightness, while the cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch.

Here’s how to make it:

• Slice cucumbers thinly
• Squeeze in lemon juice
• Add lemon zest
• Drizzle with olive oil
• Toss with mint or parsley
• Season with salt and pepper

Want to elevate it? Add a pinch of sumac or a sprinkle of feta. This salad pairs well with seafood, grilled vegetables, or as a refreshing bite. It’s like sunshine in a bowl—simple, clean, and vibrant.

15. Cucumber Chickpea Salad

Need something hearty and refreshing? Cucumber chickpea salad is the perfect combo of fiber, protein, and crunch. It’s ideal for a quick lunch or a filling side dish.

In one bowl, toss together:

• 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 large cucumber (chopped)
• ½ red onion (diced)
• A handful of chopped parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can serve it immediately, but it tastes even better after 20 minutes of chilling. For a twist, try adding crumbled feta or diced bell peppers. This is a salad that keeps you full without weighing you down.

16. Garlic Cucumber Salad

Bold and refreshing, garlic cucumber salad is for those who love a punch of flavor in every bite. The cucumbers stay crisp, while the garlic-infused dressing adds serious attitude.

Slice your cucumbers and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry. In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Minced garlic
• Rice vinegar or lemon juice
• A dash of chili oil (optional)
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro
• Salt and pepper

Toss the cucumbers with this bold dressing and let it chill before serving. The longer it sits, the more the garlic soaks in. Serve with grilled meats, over rice, or as a spicy sidekick to your main dish.

17. Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Salad

This salad is like tzatziki’s chunky cousin—cool, creamy, and packed with herbs. It’s a lifesaver on hot days and makes a soothing side to spicy or grilled foods.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Stir everything gently and chill before serving. This dish is cooling and creamy and ideal next to kabobs, shawarma, or falafel.

18. Cucumber Corn Salad

Crisp meets sweet in this vibrant summer salad. Cucumbers and corn bring opposite textures that work perfectly together.

To make it, mix:

• 1½ cups of corn (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• ½ red bell pepper (diced)
• ¼ red onion (finely chopped)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Chopped cilantro
• Salt & pepper

This salad is ideal for picnics, tacos, or BBQ plates. To make it more filling, you can toss black beans or avocado. It’s a bright, colorful dish that screams summer from the first bite.

19. Cucumber Kale Salad

Crunchy cucumbers and hearty kale team up in this nutrient-packed bowl. It’s perfect for when you want something green but still refreshing.

Massage your kale with a bit of olive oil and salt until soft. Then add:

• Sliced cucumber
• Chopped avocado
• A handful of sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Lemon juice
• Cracked pepper

Toss everything well. The oil and lemon make a light, tangy dressing that coats the veggies. This salad is a great side but also works as a stand-alone lunch, especially with grilled tofu or chicken on top.

20. Watermelon Cucumber Salad

If cucumber salads had a party vibe, this one would be it. Watermelon cucumber salad is juicy, crisp, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.

Chop equal parts of cucumber and watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Add crumbled feta cheese, freshly torn mint leaves, and a squeeze of lime. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.

Why it’s fantastic:

• Watermelon adds juicy sweetness
• Cucumber keeps it refreshing
• Mint makes it feel ultra-cool
• Feta brings in a salty contrast
• Lime juice brightens every bite

This salad is a hit at summer cookouts and brunch tables. It’s colorful, fun, and tastes like sunshine.

🥗 Conclusion: Cool, Crisp & Ready for Summer

There are 20 amazing cucumber salad recipes to keep your meals fresh, light, and full of flavor all summer. Whether you’re looking for something spicy like the Korean cucumber salad, creamy like the dill version, or sweet and savory like the watermelon combo, there’s a salad with your name on it.

Cucumbers are affordable, hydrating, and endlessly versatile, making them one of the best ingredients to play with when the temperature rises. Mix and match, serve them at BBQs, toss them into lunchboxes, or enjoy a bowl solo on a sunny afternoon.

Don’t forget to pin your favorites—you’ll want to return to them all season long. 🌞🥒

❓FAQs About Cucumber Salad Recipes

1. Can I prepare cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes! Most cucumber salads benefit from chilling. Avoid adding soft ingredients like avocado until serving time to keep the texture fresh.

2. What kind of cucumber works best for salad?

English and Persian cucumbers are ideal because they’re thin-skinned and low in seeds. No peeling required!

3. How do I keep cucumber salad from getting watery?

Salt the sliced cucumbers first, let them sit for 10–15 minutes, then drain the moisture. This keeps your salad crisp and prevents soggy results.

4. Are these cucumber salads healthy?

Definitely! Most are low in calories and high in water content, packed with fresh herbs and simple dressings. For lighter options, choose yogurt or vinegar-based dressings.

5. How long do cucumber salads last in the fridge?

They’re best enjoyed fresh, but most will keep for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Just note that some creamy or avocado-based ones may also not hold up.

Ella Foster

Ella Foster, co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a skilled writer whose love for cooking fuels her creative work. Her passion for experimenting in the kitchen brings authentic flavor and culinary inspiration to every piece she crafts for the platform.