Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a refreshing side dish that’s creamy, zesty, and bursting with garden-fresh flavor, look no further than this Creamy Cucumber Salad. With its cool cucumbers, a pop of red onion, and a lush, tangy dressing flecked with dill, this salad is a lively addition to picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. It comes together in just 15 minutes, but tastes so vibrant and satisfying, you’ll want to make it all summer long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Cucumber Salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role: crisp cucumbers for crunch, cool sour cream for richness, and fresh dill for that signature summery punch. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips to make each one sing.

• 3 cups thinly sliced cucumbers: For maximum crunch, use firm, seedless cucumbers and pat them dry after slicing.
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion: Slice the onion thinly for a mild bite that melds beautifully with the creamy dressing.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: This creates the irresistibly creamy base; you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• 1 Tablespoon white vinegar: Adds bright tang and balances the richness of the sour cream perfectly.
• 2 Tablespoons minced fresh dill: Fresh dill is key! Its lively flavor makes this salad unmistakably fresh.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the vinegar’s tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors in the veggies and dressing, so don’t skip it.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a subtle savoriness that keeps the salad interesting bite after bite.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prep the vegetables

Start by grabbing your sharpest knife or a mandoline for picture-perfect slices. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them into thin, even rounds. Do the same with the red onion. To keep the salad from turning watery, blot the cucumber slices dry with a few paper towels—this extra step really helps the dressing cling to each crunchy piece.

Step 2: Mix the dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, fresh dill, granulated sugar, salt, and garlic powder until everything is nice and smooth. The dressing will look thick at first, but don’t worry—it loosens up once mixed with the cucumbers and onion.

Step 3: Toss everything together

Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together so that every piece gets a gorgeous, creamy coating. Take your time here—nobody likes a clumpy salad. Once combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra dill or a hint more vinegar can make it your own.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

For that finishing touch, sprinkle a bit more fresh dill and crack some black pepper over the top. If you have an extra minute, chilling the salad before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully, but it’s terrific straight away, too. Either way, your Creamy Cucumber Salad is ready to brighten any table.

How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad

Garnishes

This salad loves a touch of flair! A sprinkle of fresh dill, a crack of black pepper, or even a few extra thin rings of red onion on top all help bring out its vibrant colors and flavors. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving can make the salad positively irresistible.

Side Dishes

The versatility of Creamy Cucumber Salad means it pairs with just about anything. It’s a classic alongside grilled chicken or fish, delicious with BBQ ribs, and right at home next to a simple sandwich. For a backyard picnic, throw it in next to potato salad and corn on the cob for an unbeatable summer spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping your Creamy Cucumber Salad into lettuce cups for a finger-friendly appetizer, or pile it on toasted bread for a crunchy crostini topping. For a playful twist, layer it into mason jars for individual servings at parties or buffets—guests will love the pretty presentation and ease of grabbing their own portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the Creamy Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays crisply delicious for up to three days—the flavors meld a bit more each day, making it extra tasty, although cucumbers will release water over time so expect some dressing thinning.

Freezing

This isn’t a freezer-friendly salad, unfortunately, as cucumbers and dairy-based dressings tend to lose their texture and separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy your Creamy Cucumber Salad fresh, or within a couple of days of making it.

Reheating

No reheating needed here! Simply give the salad a gentle toss before serving, especially if it has been stored for a day or two, to re-combine any dressing that may have settled. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for peak flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in Creamy Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a lighter twist or want extra protein. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly tangier and the dressing a bit less rich, but still incredibly creamy and refreshing.

What kind of cucumbers work best for this recipe?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal for Creamy Cucumber Salad because their skins are thinner and they have fewer seeds, keeping the salad crisp without needing to peel. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them and remove the seeds for best results.

How do I make the salad less watery?

Patting the cucumber slices dry after slicing really helps prevent excess moisture. You can also sprinkle a little salt on the cucumbers, let them sit for about 15 minutes, then drain off any liquid for an extra step to keep things crisp and creamy.

Can I make Creamy Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! In fact, making the salad an hour or two ahead allows the flavors to mingle and develop. Just give it a quick stir before serving and add any garnishes right before it hits the table for the freshest look and taste.

Is Creamy Cucumber Salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain wheat or gluten. Always double-check labels, especially on the sour cream and seasonings, if you’re serving guests with sensitivities or allergies.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about the light, creamy crunch of Creamy Cucumber Salad that makes every meal feel a little more special. Whip it up on a whim and watch it disappear—once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to keep the recipe in your back pocket all year long. Give it a try and let its fresh, tangy flavors brighten up your table!

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