If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant side dish that combines crunch, tang, and that luscious silky touch, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Perfectly balancing crisp cucumbers with a cooling sour cream dressing, a hint of dill, and just the right splash of vinegar, this salad bursts with brightness while staying delightfully smooth. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply craving something light and satisfying, this recipe delivers that effortless charm to your table, elevating those simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple and straightforward because the true magic here lies in fresh, quality ingredients. Every component of this salad plays a vital role—from the crisp cucumbers adding refreshing texture to the creamy dressing that ties everything together with its tangy richness.
- 4 cucumbers: Peeled if you like, thinly sliced for the perfect crunch and fresh flavor.
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided): Helps draw out excess moisture from cucumbers and seasons the dressing perfectly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy base that adds richness and smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill: Brings herby brightness that’s classic with cucumber.
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Adds a sharp, clean tang balancing the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): A touch of sweetness to round out flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (to taste): For a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 red onion: Halved and thinly sliced for a bit of zing and color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by giving your cucumbers the best foundation—place them in a bowl full of cold water mixed with 1.5 teaspoons of salt, then let them chill for 1 to 2 hours. This soaking process not only cools down the veggies but also helps draw out excess water, ensuring every bite stays crisp instead of watery. After chilling, drain and rinse them well before patting dry to keep your salad from becoming soggy.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
While the cucumbers are chilling, grab a salad bowl and combine sour cream, fresh dill, white wine vinegar, the remaining 0.5 teaspoon salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Add in the optional sugar if you want that perfect balance of tang and sweetness. Whisk everything until the dressing is smooth and beautifully emulsified, which will coat your salad with that irresistible creamy flavor we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Toss and Combine
Once the cucumbers are prepped and drained, add them back to your salad bowl along with the thinly sliced red onions. Toss everything well so that each slice glistens with the creamy dressing, letting the flavors mingle. The bold tang of vinegar, fresh dill, and tender onions elevate the humble cucumber into something truly unforgettable. Your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is ready to be served chilled and enjoyed!
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle additional fresh dill on top just before serving for an extra burst of color and herbaceous aroma. Thin lemon zest curls or a few chopped chives can also add a lively touch, complementing the salad’s fresh vibe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or seafood, acting as a cool counterbalance to smoky, charred flavors. It’s equally at home alongside a warm potato dish or roasted vegetables, offering a refreshing break on the palate that keeps your meal light and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve this salad inside hollowed-out cucumber boats or in clear glass bowls to showcase the vivid colors and creamy texture. Layer it in a trifle dish for an eye-catching buffet presentation, or even spoon it atop toasted baguette slices as a delightful appetizer that’s both creamy and crisp.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad loves the fridge—it stays fresh and tasty for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Keep it chilled to maintain that crispness and creamy bloom of the dressing, giving it a quick toss before serving again to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Because of the fresh cucumbers and sour cream base, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of cucumbers becomes watery and mushy after thawing, which takes away from the crisp satisfaction this recipe is known for.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary or advised for this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe. It’s best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature to preserve that fresh and creamy contrast that makes it so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a tangy and creamy substitute, making the salad a bit lighter while still keeping that rich texture.
Do I have to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional; many prefer keeping the skin for added crunch and color. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly if you decide to leave the peel on.
How long should I soak the cucumbers?
Soaking for 1 to 2 hours is ideal to draw out excess moisture and salt the cucumbers lightly, which enhances crunch and flavor without any bitterness.
Can I add other herbs besides dill?
Definitely! Fresh mint or parsley can bring interesting twists to the salad, but dill remains the classic herb that complements cucumbers best.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep as long as you keep it refrigerated and enjoy within a couple of days. Toss gently before serving to keep it fresh and tasty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely comforting and refreshing about this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe that never gets old. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and brings a burst of cool, creamy goodness to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, I encourage you to whip up this salad and watch it become one of your new favorites—trust me, it’s the kind of dish everyone asks for seconds on!
Print
Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions tossed in a tangy sour cream and dill dressing. Chilling the cucumbers with salt helps to draw out excess moisture, keeping the salad crisp and flavorful. Perfect as a light accompaniment for summer meals or barbecues.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cucumbers (peeled if desired and thinly sliced)
- 1 red onion (halved and thinly sliced)
Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided)
- black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Instructions
- Prep cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Stir in 1.5 teaspoons of salt and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours. This process helps to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, keeping the salad crisp.
- Drain cucumbers: After chilling, drain the cucumbers in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under fresh cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well again and pat dry with paper towels to remove residual moisture.
- Make dressing: In a large salad bowl, whisk together the sour cream, chopped fresh dill, white wine vinegar, remaining 0.5 teaspoon salt, sugar (if using), and black pepper to taste until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss salad: Add the drained cucumbers and thinly sliced red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Serve: Serve the creamy cucumber salad chilled as a refreshing side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a light meal.
Notes
- Peeling cucumbers is optional; some prefer leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Chilling cucumbers in salted water improves crunchiness by drawing out excess liquid.
- Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your taste preference or omit it for a more tangy flavor.
- Fresh dill is preferable for the best flavor, but dried dill can be substituted if necessary (use 1 teaspoon dried).
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
