Name: Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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There’s something truly irresistible about the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe—every bite is bursting with crisp freshness and a tangy, velvety dressing that effortlessly brings summer to your table. This beloved dish is a personal favorite whenever the weather turns warm, thanks to its perfect blend of crunch from cucumbers and the luxurious, dill-kissed creaminess enveloping each slice. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout or assembling a quick lunch for busy weekdays, this salad shines as the star of any spread, never failing to earn rave reviews from family and friends.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about making a Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is its simplicity—you only need a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients, but each one plays an important role in the final flavor and texture. From the juicy cucumbers to the tangy, herby dressing, every item on the list builds layers of taste and color you’ll crave all season.

3 large cucumbers (thinly sliced): For maximum crunch and refreshing flavor, use firm, unpeeled cucumbers; English cucumbers are great for fewer seeds and a tender skin.
1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a beautiful pop of color and a gentle, zippy bite that balances the creamy dressing.
1/2 cup sour cream: This is the backbone of the creamy dressing, adding richness and a slight tang. Try Greek yogurt for a lighter take!
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Brings extra silkiness and a subtle depth that enhances the flavors.
1 tablespoon white vinegar: Provides the ideal tangy lift to brighten up the salad without overpowering it.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Just a touch gives complexity and a hint of warmth.
1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity and highlights the natural sweetness of the cucumbers.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Fresh dill is an absolute must; it infuses the salad with vivid, summer-herb aromatics.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Draws out the cucumber’s juices and sharpens every flavor in the bowl.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds that little pop of gentle heat and rounds out the salad’s savory profile.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing your cucumbers and red onion thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for even, elegant rounds. Do the same with the red onion—you’re aiming for delicate, nearly translucent slices. Combine both in a large mixing bowl to ensure everything gets evenly coated by the dressing later.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar. Stir until the mixture turns silky smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Add the chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper at this stage, whisking once more to fully incorporate the herbs and seasonings. This dressing is what gives the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe its signature lusciousness!

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour the creamy dill dressing over the bowl of sliced cucumbers and red onion. Use a large spoon or rubber spatula to toss everything together gently but thoroughly. You want every slice to gleam with the tangy, herb-speckled dressing without mashing the veggies.

Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld

Cover the salad tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (though an hour is even better). This step lets the flavors blend and develop, and the crispness of the cucumbers is preserved while soaking up the tangy, creamy dressing. Serve the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe nice and cold; it’s extra refreshing this way.

How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

A little something on top can elevate the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe to new levels. Try a sprinkle of extra fresh chopped dill, a dusting of cracked black pepper, or even a scattering of thinly sliced chives for a mild onion note. For extra crunch, a few radish slices or a handful of microgreens are both pretty and tasty.

Side Dishes

This salad shines next to just about anything. It’s the perfect cool, creamy companion to BBQ chicken, grilled fish, or burgers. For a picnic or potluck, pair it with potato salad, corn on the cob, or a platter of assorted sandwiches to round out a satisfying summer feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun, serve your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe layered in mason jars for portable picnics or parties—it looks charming and stays crisp. You can also pile it atop endive leaves or crunchy lettuce cups for a dainty appetizer, or spoon it over thick slices of juicy heirloom tomatoes for a heartier twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the second day as the flavors continue to meld, but for the best texture, enjoy within 2 days—after that, the cucumbers start to soften a bit too much.

Freezing

Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended for this salad. The creamy dressing and high water content of cucumbers don’t take well to freezing and thawing, which results in a watery, separated mess. It’s best to make this fresh and enjoy right from the fridge!

Reheating

No reheating is necessary—this is a dish served cold for maximum crispness and creaminess. If it’s been sitting in the fridge, just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing in the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a wonderful lighter alternative that maintains the tangy creaminess. Choose plain, full-fat or low-fat depending on your preference, and follow the recipe as written.

How do I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?

For crunchier cucumbers, lightly salt them and let them sit in a colander for 15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry before tossing with the other ingredients. This quick trick keeps the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe extra crisp, especially if you plan to serve it a day later.

What kind of cucumbers works best?

English cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skin and fewer seeds, but any firm, fresh cucumber will do. If using regular garden cucumbers, consider peeling them if the skins are thick or waxy.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! The Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe as written is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic side for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I prepare Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in advance?

You sure can! Prepare all components and toss them together just before chilling. It can be made up to a day ahead, with the flavor deepening as it sits—just be aware it’s best enjoyed within 48 hours for peak freshness.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making a Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe at home, this is your invitation to dive in. It’s easy, vibrant, and always a hit, no matter the occasion. Whip up a bowl soon—you’ll be sharing it with all your favorite people before you know it!

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light accompaniment to any meal. The creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the crisp cucumbers and hints of fresh dill.

Ingredients

Scale

Cucumbers:

3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

Dressing:

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion.
Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.