This refreshing creamy cucumber salad is a perfect side dish! It’s made with cool cucumbers, creamy dressing, and a hint of dill to bring it all together.
You know it’s a hit when you can’t stop munching on it! I love serving it chilled—it really hits the spot on hot days, plus it’s super easy to whip up. Enjoy! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, firm cucumbers are best for this salad. English cucumbers are great since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work well too!
Sour Cream: For creaminess, sour cream is a classic. If you want a lighter touch, Greek yogurt is a delicious alternative that adds protein. You can also mix both for the best of both worlds.
Dill: Fresh dill gives the salad a bright flavor. If you only have dried dill, use about a third of the amount; it’s stronger when dried. I personally love to add a little lemon zest for extra brightness!
Onion: Red onion adds a nice bite, but if you’re sensitive to raw onion, consider using green onions instead for a milder taste. You can skip the onion altogether if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumbers Stay Crunchy?
Keeping cucumbers crunchy is key! Here’s how to do it:
- After slicing, sprinkle salt on the cucumbers and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the dressing. This keeps your salad from being watery.
- Always refrigerate the salad before serving. This chilling helps maintain that crisp texture.
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Next, slice them thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. You can choose to peel them or leave the skin on for some extra crunch and nutrients. It’s your choice!
2. Prepare the Onion:
If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly as well. This will give a nice flavor and color to your salad. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can skip this step!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together until you have a smooth dressing that’s ready to coat your veggies.
4. Combine Everything:
Add in the sliced cucumbers, red onion (if using), and chopped dill. Toss everything gently, ensuring that all the cucumber slices are covered evenly with the creamy dressing.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to blend together beautifully and makes the salad extra refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. If you’d like, you can add a little extra dill on top for garnish. Ready to dig in!
Enjoy your creamy cucumber salad as a delicious, cooling side dish! It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or just on its own as a light snack!
FAQ about Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Dressing?
Absolutely! While the sour cream and vinegar dressing is classic, you can use a yogurt-based dressing or a vinaigrette for a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the cucumbers might release some water, making the salad a bit watery. If this happens, just drain excess liquid before serving.
Is It Possible to Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until it’s time to serve. If making it the day before, you might want to add a little fresh dill before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Adding bell peppers, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes can add color and crunch to your salad. Just chop them into small pieces and mix them in with the cucumbers!