This creamy cucumber salad is super refreshing and easy to make! With crunchy cucumbers and a smooth dressing, it’s perfect for a hot day or as a side dish.
Honestly, I can eat this salad all day. The coolness of the cucumbers mixed with the tangy dressing is pure bliss! Give it a try—you’ll be hooked! 😋
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. Just slice the cucumbers, mix the dressing, and you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a great way to add some crunch to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are key for this salad. I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular slicing cucumbers work well too.
Sour Cream: I love using sour cream for its rich flavor, but Greek yogurt makes a great lighter substitution. It adds creaminess and a nice tang while boosting protein!
Dill: Fresh dill gives a vibrant flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried dill works too. Just use a smaller amount since dried herbs are stronger. Personal tip: Growing your own dill can be very rewarding if you have space!
Red Onion: Red onion provides a mild bite and beautiful color. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using sweet onions like Vidalia. For a milder flavor, soak them in water for 10 minutes before using.
How Do You Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating a creamy dressing is easy! The key is to love your mix of ingredients. Start with sour cream or Greek yogurt, then add vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. The sugar balances out the tang.
- In a bowl, mix the sour cream (or yogurt) with vinegar or lemon juice, chopped dill, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until smooth, making sure to taste and adjust seasoning.
Letting the salad chill in the fridge helps the flavors develop and makes it taste even better. Don’t rush this step!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing creamy cucumber salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare. Don’t forget to factor in at least 30 minutes of chill time in the fridge to let all those delicious flavors come together. So, you’re looking at about 40 minutes in total, but most of it is just waiting for the salad to be ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Once clean, slice them thinly, as this helps them absorb the dressing and makes them easier to eat! Next, slice your red onion very thin to make sure you get that lovely zing without overwhelming flavor.
2. Making the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) with the white vinegar (or lemon juice), fresh dill, sugar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the salad shine, so taste and adjust the flavors to your liking!
3. Combining Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over your sliced cucumbers and onions. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the veggies are coated well with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Chilling the Salad:
For the best flavor, cover your bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This gives the veggies time to soak up the creamy goodness and allows all those flavors to mingle—yum!
5. Final Touch and Serve:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste it one last time and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish to complement any summer meal or outdoor gathering!
This creamy cucumber salad is crisp, cool, and deliciously tangy—perfect for summer meals or potlucks!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While this recipe works great with English cucumbers, regular slicing cucumbers are fine too. You can even use pickling cucumbers if you prefer a crunchier texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
You can store leftover creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just remember that the cucumbers may release some water, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
What Can I Substitute for Dill?
If you don’t have dill on hand, tarragon or chives can be good alternatives! Just use a smaller amount, as these herbs have distinct flavors. Italian seasoning can work in a pinch too!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Making it a few hours in advance or even the day before allows the flavors to deepen. Just keep it refrigerated, and stir again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
