If you’re looking for a true crowd-pleaser that can brighten up any table, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is your answer. Crisp, cool cucumbers get tossed with a velvety, tangy dressing and a shower of dill, all brought together with a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a backyard barbecue, or just want a quick, refreshing side to perk up your weekday dinner, this salad delivers on every front: it’s easy, incredibly flavorful, and always feels like a small celebration of fresh ingredients.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is that every ingredient truly matters – each adds its own layer of flavor or texture without complicating the process. Here’s what you’ll need and why it makes this dish so irresistible:

2 large cucumbers: The crisp and juicy foundation of the salad; choose firm cucumbers for maximum crunch.
1/2 small red onion: Adds a gentle bite and a beautiful pop of color that contrasts with the cucumbers.
1/2 cup sour cream: Gives the salad its signature creamy texture and mild tang – the heart of the dressing.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Rounds out the richness, making the dressing extra luscious without overpowering the other flavors.
1 tablespoon white vinegar: Brings just the right amount of acidity, ensuring the salad is craveably bright and refreshing.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Balances the vinegar and highlights the natural sweetness of the cucumbers.
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Infuses the dish with classic summery, herby notes – fresh dill makes all the difference!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth, tying everything together in the background.
Salt and black pepper to taste: These basics let you adjust and perfect the flavors so they really sing!

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Make the Creamy Dressing

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, granulated sugar, fresh dill, garlic powder, and a good pinch each of salt and black pepper. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy dressing that’s both tangy and rich. Whisk until it’s completely blended so every bite of your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe will be perfectly coated.

Step 2: Prep the Cucumbers and Onions

Take your time to slice the cucumbers and red onion as thinly as possible, either by hand or with a mandoline for even slices. The thinner you slice, the better the flavors will meld and the softer their bite — but don’t worry if your knife skills aren’t perfect! Toss them straight into the dressing bowl as you work.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Once your veggies are sliced, give them a gentle but thorough toss in the creamy dressing. The secret here is to make sure every piece is coated, so use a big spoon and fold the cucumbers and onions until they’re evenly slick and glistening with that dreamy sauce.

Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Mingle

Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This short rest is when the magic really happens: the cucumbers soften slightly, the onion mellows, and all those delicious flavors come together. This step is non-negotiable for the best Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe experience!

Step 5: Stir, Season, and Serve

Just before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if it needs a little more salt, pepper, or dill. Then bring it to the table and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of extra fresh dill or a few twists of freshly ground black pepper brings this creamy salad to life. You could also add a scattering of thinly sliced chives or a pinching of flaky sea salt for a chef’s finish—it’s all about simple touches that celebrate the salad’s fresh, bright character.

Side Dishes

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is endlessly versatile when it comes to pairing. Try it alongside smoky grilled chicken, hearty burgers, or delicate baked fish. It also shines next to grain bowls, roasted potatoes, or a generous platter of mixed summer veggies. Honestly, it’s the kind of side that makes every meal feel a little more complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Take things up a notch by serving your salad in individual glass jars for picnics, or pile it high atop crunchy toasts as a refreshing appetizer. For a festive look, arrange the cucumbers and onions in concentric rings on a pretty platter, then drizzle with the creamy dressing and finish with a generous herb sprinkle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any salad left after the first round (which rarely happens!), transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe keeps well for up to two days, though the cucumbers will soften the longer they sit, soaking up all that luscious dressing.

Freezing

This is one dish where the freezer’s best left out! Creamy dressings tend to separate and cucumbers turn mushy after thawing, so you’ll want to enjoy your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe fresh from the fridge for peak taste and texture.

Reheating

No reheating needed here—this salad is always meant to be served chilled. If it’s been in the fridge for more than a few hours, just give it a quick stir before serving to reincorporate the dressing and freshen up the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just store it covered in the fridge and stir before serving for the best texture and taste.

What type Side Dish

Standard garden cucumbers work well, but you can also use English or Persian cucumbers for a slightly sweeter flavor and fewer seeds. If your cucumbers are extra seedy, scoop them out before slicing for a crisper salad.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the dressing?

Yes! Swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for your favorite dairy-free or vegan versions—they work wonderfully and still create a deliciously creamy dressing for this recipe.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?

If you want to prevent excess liquid, sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain or pat dry before mixing with the dressing. This removes extra moisture and keeps the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe crisp.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs?

Definitely! Thinly sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes make tasty additions. You can also play with herbs like parsley or chives if you want a new twist on the classic flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a refreshing, foolproof side, it’s time to bring this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe into your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a side dish that wows every time. Give it a try—your table (and your taste buds!) will thank you.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and simple side dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Crisp cucumbers and red onions are coated in a creamy, tangy dressing with hints of dill and garlic, creating a deliciously light and flavorful salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Creamy Dressing:

1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Salad:

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

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Instructions

Prepare Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl, toss until coated with dressing.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Stir before serving, adjust seasoning if needed.