This creamy cucumber salad is a cool and refreshing dish perfect for hot days. With fresh cucumbers, a smooth dressing, and a sprinkle of dill, it’s super easy to whip up.
I love how light and crunchy this salad is! It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel great, and trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds. Just don’t forget to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Opt for medium cucumbers for a crispy texture. English cucumbers are also a great choice since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini can make an interesting substitute.
Red Onion: Red onion gives beautiful color and a milder flavor. If you prefer something sweeter, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions for a lighter taste.
Sour Cream: This provides a tangy base. Plain Greek yogurt works well if you’re looking for a healthier option, and it adds creaminess while cutting down on fat. Just remember, it may be slightly tangier.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient adds richness. If you want to make it lighter, you can use light mayonnaise or even substitute with more Greek yogurt.
Dill: Fresh dill enhances the flavor beautifully. You can use 1 tablespoon of dried dill if that’s what you have, but fresh is always preferable for its vibrant taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Is Creamy and Flavorful?
To ensure your Creamy Cucumber Salad is both creamy and flavorful, follow these simple steps:
- Combine your dressing ingredients well. Use a whisk to get everything smooth and blended.
- Make sure to coat the cucumbers and onions thoroughly in the dressing. Gently toss them to ensure every piece gets some sauce.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for the flavors to meld together. Cold salads are always tastier!
- Before serving, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your palate.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
For the 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 sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little time in the fridge. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing the veggies and mixing the dressing, and then allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by getting your cucumbers and red onion ready. Slice the cucumbers and red onion thinly, then place them in a large bowl. This is where the refreshing base of your salad will come from!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, sugar, and a little salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is smooth and combined. This creamy mixture is what will make your salad so delicious!
3. Combine and Toss:
Now, pour the creamy dressing over the sliced cucumbers and red onion. Gently toss everything together so that all the veggies are coated in the dressing. Take your time here to make sure every piece is evenly covered.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, making your salad even tastier!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to mix everything up again. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve it chilled and enjoy this refreshing dish with your favorite meal!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will give your salad a tangy flavor. Just make sure to use plain Greek yogurt for the best results. You can maintain the same quantity as listed in the recipe.
How to Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking to make this salad dairy-free, you can replace both the sour cream and mayonnaise with a dairy-free yogurt or a cashew-based dressing. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as some dairy-free products can be more or less salty.
How Long Does Creamy Cucumber Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad will typically last for about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, the cucumbers may start to release water over time, so it’s best to enjoy it within the first couple of days for the best texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they mix well with the cucumbers and red onion.
