This refreshing creamy cucumber salad is perfect for hot days! With crisp cucumbers mixed in a smooth dressing, it’s both tasty and cool. Just the right side dish to brighten up your plate!
I love how easy it is to whip this up—just chop, mix, and chill. It’s great for picnics or as a crunchy snack. Plus, it helps me eat more veggies without even trying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: The stars of this salad! For the best crunch, go with English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers. If you find regular cucumbers, just scrape off most of the seeds for a less watery salad.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a lovely color and a mild bite. If you want something milder, you could use green onions or shallots instead. Both work nicely!
Sour Cream: This gives the salad its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap it for plain Greek yogurt. It maintains the tanginess and adds extra protein.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness. For a healthier twist, light mayonnaise or a vegan mayo works well without changing the flavor too much.
Dill: Fresh dill is fabulous, but if you can’t find it, dried dill works too. Just remember, dried dill is more potent, so adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Mix the Dressing Smoothly?
Getting the dressing just right is essential for this salad. First, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Here’s how to make it creamy and smooth:
- Use a whisk or fork to blend well, breaking up any lumps in the sour cream.
- Drizzle the lemon juice in as you whisk for a better emulsification.
- Taste your dressing before adding to the cucumbers. Adjust the seasoning if needed!
With this creamy dressing ready, just toss it gently with your veggies and let it chill to let the flavors really come together. Enjoy your fresh, cool salad!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for a summer gathering or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
First, start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, slice them thinly and place the slices in a large mixing bowl. The thinner you slice them, the better they’ll soak up the dressing!
2. Add the Red Onion:
Next, take your half red onion and slice it thinly as well. Add the onion slices to the bowl with the cucumbers, creating a colorful and crunchy base for your salad.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be your delicious creamy dressing.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss the salad with a spatula or spoon, ensuring all the vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
It’s time to taste your salad! Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference. A little tweak can make a big difference!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become even more delicious.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy cucumber salad is ready to be served! Take it out of the fridge and enjoy it chilled as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or on its own for a light meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream! It will give a similar tangy flavor and a nice creamy texture. You can use it in equal amounts, but keep in mind that it may be slightly thicker, so you might want to thin it with a splash of milk or water if desired.
How to Store Leftover Creamy Cucumber Salad?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the cucumbers might release some water and become a bit softer over time, so give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is quite versatile. Feel free to add halved cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some grated carrots for an extra crunch and color. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the dressing slightly to accommodate the additional vegetables.
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat if you want to maintain the crunch of the cucumbers longer. Stir the dressing in right before serving to keep everything fresh!
