Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that is both refreshing and luxurious, Creamy Cucumber Salad is the answer to your summer side dish dreams. This salad features thin ribbons of crisp cucumber and sharp red onion, folded gently into a silky, herbed dressing. It’s the sort of classic recipe that comes together in minutes but tastes like you’ve raided the garden and the dairy aisle in the best way. Each bite balances cool crunch with creamy tang, making it an irresistible companion to everything from casual cookouts to elegant brunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creamy Cucumber Salad shines because of its simple, real ingredients—you likely have most in your kitchen right now. Each one plays a vital role, from adding color and texture to building that crave-worthy, rich taste we love.
- 2 large cucumbers (thinly sliced): These are the star players, giving crispness and a mild, juicy flavor that sops up the dressing beautifully. Try English or Persian cucumbers for extra crunch.
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced): For a pop of color and a slight bite that perfectly offsets the creamy base.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: This adds richness and tang, making every forkful luscious and satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Helps round out the dressing, enhancing the creamy texture and adding extra depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Brings a gentle zing that prevents everything from tasting flat or heavy.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped): The herbaceous note that brightens the whole bowl—don’t skip it!
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Just enough to balance the acidity and make the flavors sing.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds allium flavor without overpowering the fresh vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out moisture for that perfect crunch.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a little warmth and subtle complexity.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by slicing your cucumbers and red onion as thinly as you like—think delicate ribbons or thin coins. The thinner the slices, the more readily they soak up the dressing, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the last. If you opt for English or Persian cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them, and they bring extra crunch and color to your Creamy Cucumber Salad.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, fresh dill, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and flecked with those little green pops of dill. This dressing is the heart of the salad, and getting it harmonious ensures the end result is both tangy and rich.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour that lovely creamy dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl. Gently toss everything together with tongs or a large spoon—try not to crush the veggies while making sure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. This moment is when your Creamy Cucumber Salad starts to come alive!
Step 4: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Cover the bowl and let your salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to mingle and develop, and allows the dressing to slightly soften the cucumbers and onions while still maintaining their crunch. Don’t skip this step: a little patience yields a big payoff in taste.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Right before serving, give the Creamy Cucumber Salad one final gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Top with a sprinkle of fresh dill for an extra burst of green and an irresistible aroma, then serve it cold for maximum refreshment.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad
Garnishes
A final flourish of fresh dill on top makes the salad look inviting and adds a burst of herbal freshness. You can also add a few cracks of black pepper or an extra pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving to wake up the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Creamy Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with just about anything hot off the grill—think juicy burgers, smoky barbecue ribs, or tender grilled chicken. It’s also lovely served alongside sandwiches, roasted potatoes, or anything rich and savory that’s calling out for a cool, creamy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, spoon the salad into individual bowls or serve it in a chilled glass dish for a pretty presentation. If you want a playful twist, try piling it onto open-faced sandwiches, stuffing it into pita pockets, or serving it over a bed of greens for a heartier meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Cucumber Salad keeps well in the fridge for up to two days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain peak freshness and crunch. The cucumbers may release a little extra liquid as they sit, so just give everything a quick stir before enjoying it again.
Freezing
Unfortunately, Creamy Cucumber Salad does not freeze well. The high water content in the cucumbers means they become mushy and the dressing can separate after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
No reheating needed! This salad is meant to be served chilled or at cool room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, simply stir and let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off, if desired.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Cucumber Salad a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or even a full day ahead gives the flavors more time to meld. Just remember the cucumbers will continue to soften over time, so for the very best crunch, enjoy it within 24 hours of assembling.
What’s the best type Salad, Side Dish
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because their skin is tender and their seeds are tiny, but any fresh, firm cucumbers will do nicely. If using regular slicing cucumbers, consider peeling and seeding them for a smoother texture.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt makes a fantastic swap if you want a lighter, protein-packed twist. The salad will be tangier and still creamy, just substitute it in equal amounts for the sour cream.
How can I make Creamy Cucumber Salad vegan?
No problem! Use a plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise, and your Creamy Cucumber Salad will still be every bit as luscious and satisfying. There are great dairy-free options available at most grocery stores today.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Creamy Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free as written, making it suitable for a wide range of diets. Just double-check your condiments to be certain they’re certified gluten-free, if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to win hearts at your next gathering or just brighten up a weeknight meal, Creamy Cucumber Salad is a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Its crisp freshness and creamy tang are sure to become a staple on your summer table—give it a whirl and see why everyone loves this timeless favorite!
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Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. The creamy dressing combined with crisp cucumbers and a hint of dill makes for a delicious and easy-to-make salad.
Ingredients
Cucumbers:
2 large cucumbers thinly sliced
Red Onion:
1/2 small red onion thinly sliced
Dressing:
1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, fresh dill, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Stir again before serving and garnish with extra fresh dill if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers.
- This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
