If you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, and delightfully tangy, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together cool, thinly sliced cucumbers and sharp red onions enveloped in a luscious, herb-kissed dressing that’s both creamy and bright. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of fresh dill, subtle garlic, and a touch of sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser on any table. Whether you’re looking for a quick side to brighten up dinner or a vibrant addition to summer gatherings, this salad not only satisfies but feels like a refreshing hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe just right is all about simple, fresh ingredients that work together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role in achieving that perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and crisp notes you’ll love from the first forkful.
- 3 cups thinly sliced cucumbers: The star of the dish, providing crunch and coolness.
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds sharpness and a lovely pop of color.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates the creamy, tangy dressing that binds everything.
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar: Brings a bright acidity to balance the richness.
- 2 Tablespoons minced fresh dill: Infuses the salad with that classic fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Offers just the right touch of sweetness to round out the tartness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and deepens all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory undertones without overpowering.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Red Onion
Begin by cutting your red onion into thin slices, using a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure consistent thickness. This is key for the perfect texture—thin enough to blend smoothly but still giving that satisfying bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them thinly, just like the onions. Pat them dry carefully with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is crucial so your salad doesn’t become watery and the dressing clings beautifully.
Step 3: Whip Up the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, white vinegar, fresh minced dill, granulated sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Stir these together until the dressing is smooth and all the ingredients are well integrated.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions into the bowl with your creamy dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every slice is coated with that flavorful medley.
Step 5: Garnish to Finish
Sprinkle a little extra fresh dill over the top and season with freshly ground black pepper if you like. This final touch heightens freshness and gives your salad a beautiful, inviting look.
Step 6: Chill or Serve
You can enjoy this salad immediately for a crisp, lively flavor, or cover and chill it in the fridge. Chilling allows the flavors to meld even deeper, making it even more delicious.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding extra fresh dill sprigs or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top instantly elevates the presentation. You might also try a few thin slices of radish for an extra burst of color and crispness.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fresh seafood, or even hearty sandwiches. Its lightness and creaminess make it a refreshing counterpoint to smoky, savory mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve it in small mason jars layered with additional herbs or alongside crispy pita chips as a cool, dip-like salad. You can also serve it on a bed of leafy greens to turn it into a small, vibrant salad plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover creamy cucumber salad tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient make-ahead option for quick lunches or easy side dishes.
Freezing
Because cucumbers have a high water content and the dressing is creamy, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. Both texture and flavor suffer when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is unnecessary and will compromise the crisp, fresh qualities that make it so delicious.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative and will keep the salad creamy with a slightly tangier flavor profile.
How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?
Patting the cucumber slices dry before mixing is key. Also, toss the salad just before serving or chilling to maintain crispness.
Is fresh dill necessary or can I use dried dill?
Fresh dill gives the best vibrant flavor, but if that’s not handy, dried dill can be used—just use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can add extra crunch and color without overpowering the delicate flavors.
What’s the best way to serve this salad at a picnic?
Pack it in a sealed container and keep it chilled until serving. It’s a refreshing and easy salad that holds up well on a warm day when kept cool.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and refreshing about this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite in my kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll see how effortlessly it can brighten any meal or occasion. So grab those cucumbers and dill, and give this salad a go—you’ll quickly understand why it’s such a beloved classic.
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Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions coated in a smooth sour cream dressing, enhanced with fresh dill and subtle spices. Perfect for a light, cool accompaniment to any meal or as a standalone snack, it’s quick to prepare and deliciously creamy without being heavy.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Slice the onion: Cut the red onion into thin slices using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to ensure even, delicate pieces for crispness and optimal texture in the salad.
- Prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them thinly. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Make the dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, white vinegar, minced fresh dill, granulated sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Stir all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Combine salad components: Add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly to coat all the slices evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Garnish and season: Optionally garnish the salad with additional fresh dill sprigs and freshly ground black pepper to enhance freshness and add a touch of spice.
- Serve or chill: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crisp texture or cover it and refrigerate for a chilled option. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For the best texture, use firm cucumbers like English or Kirby cucumbers.
- Adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar to your taste preference for more tang or sweetness.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead to allow flavors to meld, but avoid making it too far in advance to keep cucumbers crisp.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
- Adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor but is optional.
