Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a light, refreshing side dish packed with crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect accompaniment for summer barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, offering a balance of crunch and creaminess that enhances any meal. With a simple yet flavorful dressing made from sour cream or Greek yogurt, vinegar, and aromatic seasonings, this salad comes together in minutes. Whether served as a side for grilled meats or as a cooling contrast to spicy dishes, this creamy cucumber salad is a must-have recipe for warm weather and beyond.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to draw out moisture)

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a slight sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • Extra fresh dill
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

Preparing the Cucumbers:

  1. Slice the cucumbers: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to thinly slice the cucumbers. The thinner they are, the more they will absorb the dressing.
  2. Salt and drain: Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Rinse and dry: Rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

Making the Creamy Dressing:

  1. Whisk the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, sugar, black pepper, and dill until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, vinegar, or sugar to balance the flavors according to your preference.

Assembling the Salad:

  1. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained cucumbers and sliced red onions with the prepared dressing.
  2. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving:

  1. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra fresh dill and black pepper.
  2. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as an appetizer.

Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad

  • Use Fresh Cucumbers: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are best, as they have thinner skin and fewer seeds.
  • Salt the Cucumbers: This step is essential to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  • Let the Salad Chill: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps intensify the flavors.
  • Adjust the Dressing: Add more vinegar for tang, more sugar for sweetness, or more dill for extra freshness.

Creative Variations

  • Avocado Cucumber Salad: Add diced avocado for a creamy and nutritious twist.
  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped radishes or celery for an added crunch.
  • Protein Boost: Mix in grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or feta cheese to make it a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! It can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store in the fridge and stir before serving. How do I prevent the salad from getting watery? Salting and draining the cucumbers helps remove excess moisture, keeping the dressing thick and creamy. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh? Yes! Substitute 1 teaspoon dried dill for every 1 tablespoon of fresh dill. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Sliced cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots make great additions. This Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect balance of crisp, creamy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a summer BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just a quick and refreshing snack, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a cool, creamy bite of freshness!

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