Cucumber Salad, also known as Ensaladang Pipino, is the easiest five-minute side dish you can make. With its slightly sweet and tangy vinaigrette dressing, it pairs perfectly with grilled or fried meats and seafood. Use any cucumbers you have on hand and elevate your meal effortlessly.
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Ingredients you'll need
Notes and substitutions
- Cucumber: I used Persian cucumbers. You can also use English, Kirby, or garden cucumbers. Generally, there's no need to peel or remove the seeds as these cucumbers have thin skin and small seeds. However, if you find the skin too thick or waxed, feel free to peel-it's totally up to you.
- Vinegar: For the vinaigrette, you can use various types of vinegar to suit your taste. I used cane vinegar, but white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or rice vinegar also work well.
How to make this recipe
Step 1: Prepare vegetables
Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, bird's eye chili (if using), salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Dress the salad
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onion.
Step 4: Toss to combine
Toss the cucumbers and onion until well combined with the dressing.
Serve your Cucumber Salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Recipe FAQs
Whether to peel cucumbers largely depends on personal preference and the cucumber variety. Persian, English, and Kirby cucumbers have thin, tender skin that many enjoy eating. On the other hand, garden cucumbers often have a thicker, waxier skin. If you are concerned about pesticides or bitterness, you may choose to peel.
The best vinegar for salad dressing can vary, but in the Philippines, cane vinegar is a popular choice for its bright tanginess. Other options include apple cider for a subtle flavor, rice vinegar for mild acidity, basic white vinegar for a clean sharpness, or red wine vinegar for a fruity zing. Choose one that complements the flavors of your salad.
Filipino dishes to pair with Cucumber Salad
- Inihaw na Liempo: Grilled pork belly marinated in soy sauce, calamansi, banana ketchup, and garlic.
- Lechon Kawali: The crispy, fatty goodness of fried pork belly is complemented by the lightness of the salad. Air-fried Pork Belly is a healthier alternative.
- Tortang Talong: An eggplant omelet made with grilled or roasted eggplant dipped in beaten eggs, then pan-fried.
- Crispy Fried Fish: Its texture and flavor contrast beautifully with the refreshing salad.
- Pork Barbecue Skewers: Savory and sweet pork skewers perfect with the acidity and freshness of the salad.
- Beef Tapa: Traditionally served as part of a Tapsilog breakfast with Sinangag (garlic fried rice) and a fried egg.
Other vegetable recipes you may like
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📖 Recipe
Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 10 ounces cucumbers thinly sliced (see note)
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons vinegar (see note)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 bird's eye chili (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onion.
- Toss to Combine: Toss the cucumbers and onion until well combined with the dressing. Serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
- Cucumber: I used Persian cucumbers. You can also use English, Kirby, or garden cucumbers. Generally, there's no need to peel or remove the seeds as these cucumbers have thin skin and small seeds. However, if you find the skin too thick or waxed, feel free to peel-it's totally up to you.
- Vinegar: For the vinaigrette, you can use various types of vinegar to suit your taste. I used cane vinegar, but white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or rice vinegar also work well.
May says
Thanks for the recipe. I just live simple recipes like this that i can make.
Nora Rey says
Hi May! You're very welcome!😊 If you have any questions or need more recipes, I'm here to help. Happy cooking! 👨🍳👩🍳