This creamy cucumber salad is refreshing and super easy to make! With crisp cucumbers, creamy dressing, and a hint of tang, it’s perfect for warm days or as a side dish.
The best part? It comes together in just a few minutes! I like to make a big bowl to enjoy as a light snack. You can even add herbs for extra flavor—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch. Persian cucumbers are also great due to their thinner skin and less seeds. If you can’t find these, regular ones work perfectly too!
Red Onion: I love using red onion for its mild flavor and color, but you can substitute with green onions or even sweet onions if you want something less pungent.
Sour Cream: Sour cream provides a rich creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a fantastic lower-fat option. It still gives that creamy texture while adding a bit of protein.
Vinegar: White vinegar adds a nice tang, but if you’re looking for a different taste, apple cider vinegar works well too. Lemon juice can be a refreshing alternative, adding a citrusy twist!
Dill: Fresh dill is the hero here, but if you don’t have it, dry dill also works. Just use about one third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Can I Make Sure My Cucumber Salad Stays Crisp?
Keeping your cucumber salad crisp is all about the preparation! Here are some tips:
- **Salt the Cucumbers:** Before mixing, sprinkle salt on the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, preventing the salad from getting soggy.
- **Keep it Chilled:** After mixing, pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and helps keep the cucumbers crunchy.
- **Serve Immediately After Chilling:** If making ahead, consider serving right after chilling to maintain that lovely crispness. Store leftovers in a sealed container for only a day or two.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delightful, crunchy cucumber salad every time! Enjoy!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to chill it for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. So, plan for about 45 minutes total to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers well under running water. Then, slice them thinly. If you prefer, you can peel them partially for a mix of crunchy skin and tender flesh, or fully if you like. Leaving the skin on adds nice texture and color!
2. Add the Onions:
Next, take half of a medium red onion and slice it thinly. Add the sliced onion to a large mixing bowl along with the cucumber slices. Give it a gentle stir to combine them.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), sugar, chopped dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to pour that delightful creamy dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss everything gently together until all the slices are well coated in the delicious dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs a little more zip, adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch more salt, extra pepper, or a touch more sugar as per your taste preference.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Right before serving, you can garnish with a little extra dill and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Enjoy this refreshing and creamy cucumber salad as a perfect side dish for BBQs, sandwiches, or simply on its own! It’s bound to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While this recipe works well with regular cucumbers, you can also use Persian or English cucumbers. These varieties typically have thinner skins and fewer seeds, making them great for salads!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy cucumber salad tastes best when enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. After that, the cucumbers might start to get mushy, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance! Just wait to add the dressing until about 30 minutes before serving to ensure the cucumbers remain crisp and the flavors stay vibrant.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! It’s perfect alongside grilled meats, BBQs, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side to any meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light lunch!
