This creamy cucumber salad is light, refreshing, and super easy to whip up! With cool cucumbers mixed in a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for warm days or as a side dish.
I love serving it at picnics or family gatherings. Nothing beats that crisp bite of cucumber and the creamy sauce. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥒
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use medium cucumbers for a firmer texture. If you’re short on time, English cucumbers are a great option as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, so you can skip peeling them!
Red Onion: Red onions add a sweet zing! If you want a milder flavor, you can use green onions or yellow onions instead.
Sour Cream: This is essential for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute and adds extra protein!
Mayonnaise: It’s optional, but if you love extra creaminess, go for it! If you want a healthier option, try using low-fat mayo or even avocado for a unique twist.
Dill: Fresh dill has a bright flavor, but if you’re out, dried dill works too. Remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use about a third of the amount.
Vinegar: White vinegar is perfect for tanginess. Apple cider vinegar can also offer a nice flavor change without straying too far from the original taste.
How Can I Make My Creamy Dressing Extra Smooth?
To achieve a smooth and creamy dressing, it’s important to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Start by combining the sour cream and mayo (if you’re using it) in a medium bowl.
- Whisk them together until well-blended. This prevents clumps.
- Add in the dill, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Incorporate each ingredient slowly for even mixing.
- For an extra creamy texture, you can use a hand mixer or blender briefly. This really makes a difference!
After mixing, let your dressing rest so the flavors meld together beautifully before tossing it with the cucumbers and onions.
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
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and the red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl. This is where all the crunchy goodness will come together!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise (if you want it extra creamy), fresh dill, white vinegar, sugar (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This dressing is what will make your salad rich and flavorful!
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the creamy dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onions in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently, making sure that all the cucumber and onion slices are well-coated in the dressing. It’s okay to be gentle here to keep the cucumbers intact!
4. Chill for Flavor:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid to keep the freshness in and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
5. Final Toss and Serve:
Before serving, give the salad another light toss. Taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy your creamy cucumber salad!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, adding a nice tang and creamy texture. Just make sure to use plain Greek yogurt to keep the flavor profile balanced, and adjust any seasonings if necessary.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works well in a pinch! Use about one-third the amount, which means one tablespoon of dried dill to replace two tablespoons of fresh. Keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit less vibrant but still delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so give it a good stir before serving again to mix in the dressing, and season as needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative—chopped bell peppers, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes can add extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly like the cucumbers for even distribution in the creamy dressing.
