Name: Creamy Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers (thinly sliced); 1/2 medium red onion (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 2 tbsp white vinegar; 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped); 1 tsp sugar (optional); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Fresh ground black pepper (to taste)

There is something undeniably comforting about a dish that instantly transports you back to carefree summer afternoons. For me, that dish is Creamy Cucumber Salad. Just the thought of crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, and fresh dill swirling in a tangy, creamy dressing brings back memories of family picnics under the big oak tree in our backyard. This salad is a true classic, beloved for its refreshing crunch and simple, honest flavors. It is light yet satisfying, making it the perfect side dish for everything from juicy grilled chicken to hearty steak.

What makes this salad even more special is how incredibly easy it is to put together. In about ten minutes, you can have a bowl of cool, creamy goodness ready to serve. Whether you are hosting a summer potluck, preparing for a picnic, or just needing a quick and tasty side for a weeknight dinner, this salad fits the bill beautifully. With everyday ingredients like cucumbers, red onion, sour cream, and dill, it is the kind of recipe you will find yourself turning to again and again.

There is a reason Creamy Cucumber Salad has been passed down through generations. It is simple, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. You can dress it up with extras like avocado or lemon juice, or keep it traditional. Either way, it never fails to please a crowd or satisfy a craving for something cool and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First and foremost, you will love how incredibly easy it is to whip up this Creamy Cucumber Salad. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal chopping, you can have a delicious side ready in no time. This makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, last-minute get-togethers, or lazy summer weekends when you just do not feel like spending hours in the kitchen.

Another reason to love this recipe is its classic, nostalgic charm. It tastes just like the salad your grandma used to make—or maybe even better. The creamy dressing has just the right balance of tangy and sweet, while the fresh dill adds a lovely herbaceous note that ties everything together.

Finally, you will appreciate how versatile this salad is. It pairs beautifully with almost any main dish, from hearty beef burgers to delicate grilled salmon. You can easily customize it with a few simple tweaks to match whatever meal you are serving. Plus, it is family-friendly, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

The crispness of the cucumbers, the mild sharpness of the red onion, and the creamy tang of the dressing create a flavor and texture combination that is both comforting and crave-worthy. Every bite offers a refreshing crunch followed by a smooth, flavorful coating that leaves you wanting more.

Health Benefits

While Creamy Cucumber Salad feels like a treat, it actually offers several health benefits too. Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating, consisting of about 95% water, which helps you stay refreshed and supports healthy digestion. They are also low in calories but rich in important nutrients like vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants that promote heart health.

Red onions add more than just flavor; they are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and sulfur compounds, which can help boost immunity and support detoxification processes in the body. Dill, meanwhile, is not just a flavorful herb—it also contains anti-inflammatory compounds and can aid digestion.

Using full-fat sour cream, or swapping for Greek yogurt, offers a satisfying source of protein and calcium, which supports bone health. Choosing Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can also reduce the fat content and increase the protein, making the salad even more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.

Overall, this salad is a refreshing and relatively light side dish that delivers plenty of nutrients while still feeling indulgent and satisfying.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 120 calories
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g

Ingredients List

2 large cucumbers (regular, English, or Persian), thinly sliced
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred, or substitute Greek yogurt)
2 tablespoons white vinegar (or white wine vinegar or golden balsamic)
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the perfect balance of creaminess, tanginess, and freshness. Using fresh dill rather than dried really makes the flavors pop, and a touch of sugar can soften the vinegar’s sharpness if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers and Onion:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into very thin rounds. Thin slices help the dressing coat every piece perfectly. Next, thinly slice the red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the onion slices in cold water for about 5 minutes, then drain well.
Pat the Cucumbers Dry:
This step is crucial. Cucumbers hold a lot of water, which can dilute the dressing. Place the sliced cucumbers on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently pat them dry.
Mix the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vinegar, dill, sugar, salt, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Take a moment to taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine the Salad:
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Using a large spoon or your hands, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle a little extra fresh dill and a few cracks of black pepper over the top for a beautiful and flavorful finish. You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld even more.
Optional Enhancements:
For a touch of extra richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice also brightens up the flavors wonderfully.

How to Serve

Serve as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak.
Spoon it into pita bread with grilled meats for a Mediterranean-style sandwich.
Top a simple green salad with a scoop for added texture and creaminess.
Pair with baked salmon or roasted turkey breast for a light yet satisfying meal.
Bring it to your next potluck or barbecue—it disappears quickly!

Pairing Suggestions

Creamy Cucumber Salad pairs wonderfully with many different dishes:

Grilled Chicken Thighs seasoned with lemon and herbs
Beef Burgers served with turkey bacon for a halal-friendly twist
Roasted Salmon Fillets with lemon dill sauce
Baked Falafel Wraps for a vegetarian option
Stuffed Bell Peppers filled with rice and ground beef

For beverages, consider pairing this salad with lemonade, mint iced tea, or a sparkling water with a splash of cucumber or lime.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers tend to release more water over time, making the dressing thinner.

Freezing:
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well. The high water content of the cucumbers causes them to become mushy when thawed.

Reheating:
This salad is meant to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary.

To freshen up leftovers, you can drain any excess liquid and stir in a little extra sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not patting the cucumbers dry: Skipping this step results in a watery salad.
Overdressing the salad: Start with a moderate amount of dressing and add more if needed.
Using dried dill: Fresh dill offers the best flavor and texture.
Skipping the chilling time: Letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes improves the flavor.
Overmixing the cucumbers: Gentle tossing keeps them from breaking apart and becoming mushy.

Pro Tips

Use a mandoline slicer for super thin, even cucumber slices.
If your cucumbers have a thick, waxy skin, consider peeling them first.
Choose Persian or English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a more delicate crunch.
Adjust the vinegar and sugar to balance the dressing according to your taste preferences.
For an extra crisp texture, refrigerate the sliced cucumbers and onions before mixing them into the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, store the cucumbers and dressing separately and mix them just before serving.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds extra protein while keeping the dressing creamy.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Tomatoes, avocado, or thinly sliced radishes make excellent additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

Can I omit the sugar?
Yes, the sugar is optional and can be left out or adjusted to taste.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
You can, but the flavor will not be as vibrant. Use one-third the amount of dried dill if substituting.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Be sure to pat the cucumbers dry before mixing and serve the salad soon after preparing.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative instead of sour cream.

What type of vinegar is best?
White vinegar is traditional, but white wine vinegar or golden balsamic vinegar also work beautifully.

Can I peel the cucumbers?
Of course. If you prefer a smoother texture or if the cucumber skin is tough, go ahead and peel them.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you are looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious side dish to complement your summer meals, this Creamy Cucumber Salad is your answer. It is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive backyard barbecues.

I would love to hear how your Creamy Cucumber Salad turns out! If you give this recipe a try, feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experience. Better yet, snap a photo of your beautiful salad and tag me on social media—I cannot wait to see your creations and celebrate your success in the kitchen!