If you’re on the hunt for a salad that’s both refreshingly crisp and luxuriously creamy, then look no further than Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe. This classic dish strikes the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and savory flavors wrapped in a luscious dressing that clings lovingly to each cucumber slice. It’s one of those comforting recipes that feels like a warm kitchen hug on a summer afternoon, promising a cool bite with every forkful. Whether as a side for your barbecue or a simple snack, this salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to share around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create an irresistible dish. Each component plays an essential role in balancing texture, flavor, and color, making it feel both homey and special.
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced: Fresh, crisp cucumbers are the foundation, offering a cool crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle sharpness and natural sweetness that complements the cucumbers perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt: Essential for drawing out excess moisture from the vegetables and intensifying their flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the dressing, binding everything deliciously together.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: Brings a bright tang that cuts through the creaminess and refreshes the palate.
- 1 tablespoon white sugar: Balances out the acidity with a gentle touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed: Infuses a fragrant herbal note that’s classic and unmistakable in cucumber salads.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth and mild savory warmth without overpowering the freshness.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives a little bite and complexity to round out the dressing.
How to Make Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Salt the Vegetables
This step is the secret to a perfectly crisp salad. By mixing the thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions with sea salt and letting them sit covered at room temperature for 30 minutes, you encourage the veggies to release excess water. This removes unwanted sogginess and ensures every bite stays satisfyingly crunchy.
Step 2: Drain the Vegetables
After the resting period, transfer the salted cucumber and onion mixture to a colander over the sink or a bowl to catch the drippings. Gently stir occasionally to help release even more moisture. This careful draining, lasting about 30 minutes, further firms up the salad’s texture so it never feels watery once tossed with the dressing.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dried dill, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. This dressing is where the magic happens! It’s rich and tangy, with a hint of sweetness and a burst of herbaceous flavor that makes every slice of cucumber sing.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Pour the luscious dressing over the well-drained cucumbers and onions, then toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Make sure nothing escapes the creamy goodness—this mix is what transforms simple veggies into an unforgettable dish.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours. This chilling time enhances the flavors, allowing everything to meld beautifully. Plus, serving it cold is incredibly refreshing, especially on warm days.
How to Serve Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra touch, sprinkle a little fresh dill or finely chopped chives on top just before serving. These garnishes add a pop of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or burgers, adding cool contrast to smoky, charred flavors. It’s also fantastic alongside hearty sandwiches or fresh baked bread to round out a simple picnic or potluck meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in hollowed-out cucumber boats or small mason jars for individual servings. You can also layer it over a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and elegant salad presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to two days, though best enjoyed within the first 24 hours to maintain that signature crunch.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe since cucumbers lose their crisp texture and become watery upon thawing. Best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated as described.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold and should not be reheated. Just give any leftovers a gentle stir and serve chilled to recapture its wonderful flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of peeling them?
Absolutely! Peeling is optional and depends on your preference. Leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and a bit more color and texture, but peeling creates a more delicate, less bitter bite.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
If you’re looking for a lighter or vegan option, try using Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo alternative. Both will give you that creamy texture with slightly different flavor nuances.
How long can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Prepare up to one day in advance to ensure it stays fresh and crisp. Just be sure to drain the vegetables thoroughly and keep it tightly covered in the fridge.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic addition to meal prep! Just pack the salad separately from any dressings if you want to maintain maximum crispness, or toss together close to mealtime.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the salad?
Definitely! Try adding cherry tomatoes, radishes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra color and flavor. Just keep in mind that adding watery vegetables might require adjusting the salt and drainage time.
Final Thoughts
Sharing Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe feels like sharing a simple joy, a moment of freshness and comfort all in one bowl. It’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and versatile enough to fit any meal occasion. So don’t hesitate—grab those cucumbers and bring this classic recipe into your kitchen. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!
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Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and aromatic spices. The salad is salted and drained to remove excess moisture, resulting in a crisp texture perfect for warm weather meals or as a complement to grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Salt the Vegetables: Mix the thinly sliced cucumbers, sweet onion, and sea salt together in a large bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes to draw out excess water, which helps achieve a crispier salad.
- Drain the Vegetables: Transfer the salted vegetable mixture to a colander set over a sink or bowl. Let it drain for about 30 minutes, stirring gently a few times to remove as much liquid as possible. After draining, transfer the vegetables back into a large bowl.
- Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, white sugar, dried dill weed, garlic powder, and ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the drained cucumber and onion mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling melds the flavors and enhances the salad’s refreshing qualities.
Notes
- Peeling the cucumbers is optional; leave skin on if you prefer more color and texture.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preferred creaminess.
- For extra tang, substitute vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- This salad is best served fresh within 1-2 days but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make it lighter, use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
