Best Cucumber Salad

Gather all ingredients.

Toss together cucumbers and 1 teaspoon of the salt in a large bowl. Let stand, uncovered, at room temperature for 30 minutes. Pour off any and discard any liquid released in bowl.

While cucumbers are sitting, combine red onion and vinegar in a small bowl and let stand, uncovered, for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Pour onion mixture through a fine mesh strainer set over a medium bowl; add onions to bowl with drained cucumbers, reserving vinegar mixture in medium bowl.

Add garlic, mustard, sugar, pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to bowl with vinegar. Whisking constantly, gradually whisk in oil until emulsified, about 1 minute; set aside.

Add dill, basil, and dressing to bowl with cucumbers and onions; stir to combine. Let stand, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional black pepper.