This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy cucumbers with a smooth, tangy dressing. Perfect for hot days or as a side at gatherings!
I love how simple it is to make—just slice the cucumbers, mix the dressing, and combine. It’s a good way to enjoy vegetables, plus it pairs well with almost any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the star of this salad! If they’re not in season, you can use English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. For a twist, try using pickling cucumbers for a bit more bite.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice color and mild flavor, but you can swap in green onions or shallots if you prefer a milder taste. If you want to reduce the onion’s sharpness, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
Sour Cream: While sour cream gives a rich creaminess, Greek yogurt is a healthier option that still provides that tangy flavor. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream for a vegan version!
Dill: Fresh dill is the best for flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can use dried dill. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about 1 teaspoon instead of 2 tablespoons!
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
To keep your cucumber salad fresh and crunchy, proper preparation is key. Here are some tips:
- Before slicing, make sure your cucumbers are cold and firm. This will help maintain their crunch.
- After slicing, you can sprinkle a little salt over the cucumbers and let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and prevents a soggy salad.
- Avoid adding the dressing until just before serving. This way, the cucumbers won’t absorb too much dressing and become watery.
- Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld without compromising the texture!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus a little extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, in total, you can have this delicious dish ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Then, using a sharp knife, thinly slice them. Place the cucumber slices into a large mixing bowl for easy tossing later on.
2. Add the Red Onion:
Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly as well. Add the onion to the bowl with the cucumbers. This will give a nice crunch and a bit of flavor to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small separate bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is nice and smooth.
4. Mix in the Dill:
Add the finely chopped fresh dill to your dressing mixture and stir it again. The dill will add a wonderful flavor that complements the cucumbers beautifully!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and red onion slices. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together until all the slices are evenly coated in the creamy goodness.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste it to adjust the seasonings if needed. Garnish with a little extra chopped dill for a nice touch! Enjoy your creamy cucumber salad as a delightful side dish at any meal!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, but remember to give it a gentle stir before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will continue to release moisture, so it’s best to eat it fresh for optimal crunchiness, but it will still taste great!
Can I Use Different Herbs?
Yes! While dill is delicious, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, mint, or chives for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to chop them finely to distribute the flavor throughout the salad.
What Can I Serve with Cucumber Salad?
This creamy cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a summer picnic spread. It can also be served alongside spicy dishes to cool things down!
