Creamy Cucumber Salad

Creamy Cucumber Salad is a cool, refreshing dish made with crisp cucumber slices tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s a classic summer side that’s light, simple, and full of flavor. Whether paired with grilled meats, sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own, this salad delivers a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a go-to for hot days and outdoor gatherings. The creamy dressing with a hint of tang perfectly complements the fresh cucumber slices, and it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes. It’s also a great make-ahead option for barbecues, potlucks, and picnics.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• English cucumbers or regular cucumbers (thinly sliced)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Mayonnaise
• White vinegar or lemon juice
• Fresh dill (chopped)
• Garlic (minced or grated)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Red onion (optional, thinly sliced)

directions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers using a knife or mandoline. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and scoop out the seeds for the best texture.
2. Salt and Rest (optional but recommended): Place cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out excess water. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired.
4. Combine and Chill: Add cucumbers (and red onion, if using) to the dressing. Mix until well coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve Cold: Garnish with additional dill if desired and serve cold.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest/Chill Time: 30–45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Lighten it up: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo and sour cream.
• Add crunch: Toss in thinly sliced radishes or celery for extra texture.
• Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• Herb swap: Try chives, parsley, or mint if dill isn’t your favorite.
• Sweet and tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar and a bit more sugar for a sweet-and-sour profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It may become a bit watery over time due to the cucumbers releasing moisture, so give it a good stir before serving. This salad is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

If using English cucumbers, no need to peel. For regular cucumbers, peeling is recommended for a more tender bite.

Why salt the cucumbers first?

Salting helps draw out moisture, which prevents the salad from becoming watery and helps the dressing cling better.

Can I use only sour cream or only mayonnaise?

Yes, you can adjust to your preference. All sour cream gives a tangier flavor, while all mayo gives a richer one.

How long does Creamy Cucumber Salad last?

It’s best eaten the day it’s made but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative in the dressing.

What goes well with this salad?

It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, fish, or sandwiches.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, prepare the dressing and cucumbers separately and mix them together shortly before serving.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb diet, especially if you skip the sugar.

Can I freeze Creamy Cucumber Salad?

No, freezing is not recommended as cucumbers will lose their texture and become mushy when thawed.

What can I do if the salad gets watery?

Drain any excess liquid and stir before serving. Salting the cucumbers beforehand can help prevent this.

Conclusion

Creamy Cucumber Salad is a quick, easy, and deliciously refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you need a light and creamy side. With its crisp cucumbers, fresh dill, and tangy dressing, it’s a classic recipe that belongs in every summer rotation. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it with dinner, it’s always a cool and crunchy hit.

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