If you are a fan of refreshing and vibrant dishes, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is going to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection. It’s the perfect balance of cool, crisp cucumbers wrapped in a luscious, tangy dressing that carries a hint of sweetness and fragrant dill. Whether you want a quick side for your grilled meals or a light salad to brighten your table, this recipe delivers effortless freshness with every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about combining simple, everyday ingredients that each bring a special touch to the dish, resulting in an irresistibly creamy and flavorful salad. From the fresh crunch of cucumbers to the zing of white vinegar, every element plays a crucial role.
- 3 cups thinly sliced cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for that satisfying crunch and bright green color.
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and beautiful purple contrast.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy base that gives the salad its rich and smooth texture.
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar: Provides a perfect tang to balance the creaminess.
- 2 Tablespoons minced fresh dill: Fresh dill adds a fragrant, herbal note that’s essential to this salad.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to round out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and brings together all the tastes beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory depth without overpowering the freshness.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cut the Vegetables
Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers and red onions. The thin slices will give you that delicate crunch and help the flavors meld beautifully with the dressing. It’s best to use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even, paper-thin slices that look as good as they taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, white vinegar, minced dill, granulated sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is what transforms simple vegetables into a harmonious, flavorful dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently toss the thinly sliced cucumbers and onions with your freshly made dressing. Make sure each slice is coated well, so every forkful bursts with flavor and creaminess. The salad will start to soften slightly as it marinate, intensifying the taste.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
To finish, sprinkle a little extra minced dill on top along with some freshly ground black pepper if you like a subtle kick. Then, refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving — chilling allows the flavors to meld perfectly and gives you that refreshing cool bite.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh dill sprigs or a light dusting of paprika can brighten the salad’s presentation and enhance its aroma. A few cracked black peppercorns on top lend a mild heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the delicate cucumber flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or pork because its creamy tang cuts through richness and adds a refreshing contrast. It’s also fantastic alongside barbecued ribs or burgers for a lighter balance on heavy days.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond a bowl — try serving this creamy cucumber salad in hollowed-out cucumber cups or as a crisp topping on crusty bread for an unexpected snack. Layer it in a clear glass jar for picnics or potlucks so the vibrant colors shine through, tempting everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the cucumbers may release some liquid over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well because cucumbers have high water content and will become mushy after thawing. To keep enjoying its crisp texture and creamy consistency, stick to fresh preparations or refrigerate leftovers.
Reheating
This salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. Just give it a toss and the flavors will feel fresh and lively for your next bite.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of dill?
Absolutely! While dill is classic in cucumber salads, fresh mint or parsley can offer a lovely twist. Each herb will change the flavor profile, so feel free to experiment according to your taste preferences.
How do I make the salad less creamy?
If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting part of the sour cream with Greek yogurt or even a touch of vinaigrette for a tangier, less rich dressing.
Can I use other types of cucumbers?
English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers work beautifully here because they have fewer seeds and are crisp. Regular slicing cucumbers are fine but might have a slightly different texture.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
It’s great for short-term meal prep since you can make it ahead and refrigerate. However, because cucumbers tend to release water, it’s best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal texture and flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Thin slices of radishes, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can add extra color and crunch. Just add them at the time of serving to maintain their freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is truly a gem to keep on hand when you want something easy, refreshing, and downright delicious. Its simplicity makes it effortless to prepare, yet the layers of creamy, tangy, and herby flavors create a dish that feels special every time. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see how it livens up your meals with its crisp, cooling charm.
Print
Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish perfect for warm weather. Featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions tossed in a tangy and dill-infused sour cream dressing, this salad combines crisp vegetables with creamy, flavorful dressing for a delightful contrast. Ready in just 15 minutes and served chilled, it’s an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing
- 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
- Cut the Vegetables: Begin by washing and peeling the cucumbers if desired. Then slice the cucumbers and red onion into thin, even slices for a uniform texture in the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, white vinegar, minced fresh dill, granulated sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Whisk these together until smooth and well blended to create the creamy dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch of flavor, garnish the salad with a few additional sprigs of fresh dill and freshly cracked black pepper. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to stay crisp and cool.
Notes
- For extra crunch, soak cucumbers in ice water for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Adjust the vinegar and sugar to taste for a more tangy or sweeter dressing.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- Fresh dill can be substituted with dried dill, but reduce the quantity to 1 tablespoon.
