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Creamy Cucumber Salad

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing side dish made with crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced onions, and a tangy, creamy dill dressing. It’s cool, crunchy, and incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or as a light side with grilled meats.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 4–5 small cucumbers), thinly sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing

  • 1 cup (240 g) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
  2. Slice them into thin rounds (about ⅛ inch thick).
  3. If using regular cucumbers with large seeds, peel them if desired.

Optional: Sprinkle the cucumber slices with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit in a colander for 20–30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels before using.


Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • Sour cream
  • Mayonnaise
  • Vinegar or lemon juice
  • Sugar (if using)
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir until smooth and creamy.


Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, dill, and parsley.
  2. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  3. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

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Serving Suggestions

This creamy cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with:

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  • Grilled chicken
  • Barbecue ribs
  • Hamburgers
  • Fried chicken
  • Baked salmon
  • Roasted potatoes
  • Corn on the cob
  • Sandwiches and wraps

Tips for Success

  • Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
  • Salting the cucumbers beforehand helps prevent a watery salad.
  • Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but dried dill works well too.
  • For the best texture, prepare the salad the same day you plan to serve it.

Variations

Greek-Inspired Cucumber Salad

Add:

  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Kalamata olives
  • Fresh oregano

Ranch Cucumber Salad

Replace the Dijon mustard with 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning.

Avocado Cucumber Salad

Fold in 1 diced ripe avocado just before serving.

Bacon Cucumber Salad

Sprinkle with ½ cup crispy crumbled bacon for extra flavor and crunch.

Light Version

Substitute plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream and mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-rich dressing.


Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Stir before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly.
  • Freezing is not recommended, as the cucumbers will become watery after thawing.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 145
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 3 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crisp, cool cucumbers coated in a rich, tangy dressing.
  • Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and summer meals.
  • Fresh dill and garlic add bright, classic flavor.
  • A refreshing side dish that complements almost any main course.

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