Creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Made with crisp cucumbers, a tangy and creamy dressing, and simple seasonings, this salad is easy to prepare and perfect for warm weather. It provides a cool and crisp texture, making it an excellent addition to barbecues, picnics, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This salad comes together in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Refreshing and Light – The combination of fresh cucumbers and creamy dressing makes it an ideal summer dish.
- Versatile – You can serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own.
- Customizable – Adjust the ingredients and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cucumbers
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Vinegar or lemon juice
- Fresh dill
- Garlic (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Directions
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar (or lemon juice), chopped dill, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Add sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet taste.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and mix well to coat evenly.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
Variations
- Creamy but Lighter – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
- Add More Crunch – Include thinly sliced red onions or radishes for added texture.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Herb Variations – Replace dill with parsley, chives, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release water over time, so stir before serving.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
How can I prevent the cucumbers from becoming watery?
You can lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes before draining excess water before mixing with the dressing.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, prepare the dressing separately and mix it with the cucumbers just before serving.
What type of cucumbers work best for this salad?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal since they have thin skins and fewer seeds.
Can I use mayonnaise instead of sour cream?
Yes, mayonnaise can be used for a richer taste, or you can mix it with sour cream for balance.
How do I make this salad dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative or a vinaigrette-based dressing instead of sour cream.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can be great additions.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you avoid adding sugar, this salad is suitable for a keto diet.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Does this salad pair well with grilled meats?
Absolutely! It complements grilled chicken, steak, fish, and even burgers.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweeter and fruitier taste to the dressing.
Conclusion
Creamy cucumber salad is a simple yet delicious side dish that brings a refreshing contrast to any meal. With its creamy dressing and crisp texture, it is an excellent choice for warm days and casual gatherings. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Cucumber Salad
Description
This refreshing creamy cucumber salad features crisp cucumbers coated in a tangy, herby dressing. Perfect as a side dish for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and place them in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
- Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Use red onion slices for an extra crunch.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
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