Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

When the sun is blazing and appetites demand something cool and refreshing, few dishes satisfy like a Creamy Cucumber Salad. It’s a summertime classic for a reason—light, tangy, and delightfully creamy with just a whisper of herbs and garlic. Whether you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue or need a quick side dish to elevate your weekday lunch, this recipe is here to deliver simplicity and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Salad

Crisp and Creamy Texture: The cucumbers stay crisp while the sour cream coating provides a velvety finish.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in just minutes, with minimal ingredients.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep.
Customizable: Add red onions, fresh herbs, or even swap in Greek yogurt.
Naturally Gluten-Free: A side dish everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Salad

Base Ingredients:

English Cucumbers: These are preferred for their thin skin and fewer seeds. They stay crisp and don’t require peeling, although you can peel them for a smoother texture.

For the Creamy Dressing:

Sour Cream: This forms the creamy base of the dressing, giving it that signature richness.
White Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that balances the creaminess of the sour cream.
Fresh Dill: Infuses the salad with a bright, herby freshness.
Salt and Garlic Powder: Brings out the flavor of the cucumbers and adds subtle depth.
Sugar: Just a hint helps mellow the acidity.
Red Onion (Optional): Thinly sliced for a touch of color and sharpness. Soaking them in water first can reduce their bite.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

Peel the cucumbers if desired. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine sour cream, chopped dill, white vinegar, salt, sugar, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine

Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices. If using red onion, add it now. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and gives the salad that refreshing chill. Stir before serving and garnish with extra dill if desired.

Equipment Needed

Cutting board and sharp knife or mandoline
Two mixing bowls (one large, one small)
Whisk or fork
Serving spoon

Tips for Success

Chill before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Slice cucumbers evenly so they absorb the dressing uniformly.
Use fresh dill if possible—it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Drain cucumbers lightly if they release too much water after slicing.
Adjust seasoning to taste before serving, especially after chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or steak.
Serve as a cool side next to spicy BBQ dishes.
Add a scoop to your picnic or potluck spread.
Spoon onto a bed of greens or alongside a sandwich.

Variations to Try

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich option.
Add chopped chives or green onions for an extra allium flavor.
Include chopped radishes or celery for crunch.
Top with crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Use apple cider vinegar instead of white for a fruity tang.

More Salads You’ll Love:

FAQs about Creamy Cucumber Salad

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s recommended. The flavors blend beautifully after an hour or two in the fridge.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but it’s best within the first 24–48 hours.

Can I use regular cucumbers?

Yes, but you may want to peel and seed them first for best results.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

You can, but use less—about 1/3 of the amount—and let it sit longer to rehydrate in the dressing.

Is it okay to skip the sugar?

Absolutely! It just adds a mild balance to the vinegar, but it’s optional.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect union of simplicity and satisfaction. It’s the kind of recipe that you can memorize after one go, tweak to your liking, and keep coming back to every summer. Serve it cold, savor the crunch, and bask in the cool refreshment it brings to any sunny day meal.

Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic or enjoying it solo in the backyard, it’s bound to become your go-to cucumber dish all season long!

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