This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for warm days. It mixes crunchy cucumbers with a smooth, tangy dressing that’s simply delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Medium cucumbers add a nice crunch. If they’re too bitter, try using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, which are less seedy and sweeter.
Red Onion: Red onions provide a mild onion flavor and beautiful color. If you want something milder, opt for green onions or shallots instead.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and added protein. You can also substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
Mayonnaise: While optional, mayonnaise adds extra creaminess. If you want a healthier choice, consider using avocado or a plant-based mayo.
Dill: Fresh dill makes this salad pop! If out of season, dried dill works too but use less as it’s stronger. I sometimes mix in a bit of mint for a refreshing twist!
How Can I Make This Salad Extra Creamy?
The key to creaminess lies in your dressing! Start with a good mix of sour cream or Greek yogurt and add mayonnaise if you want that extra richness. Here’s what to do:
- Mix the sour cream or yogurt with the mayo in a bowl for a richer texture.
- Add lemon juice for brightness, then your dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined!
- Pour over the cucumbers and onions gently, ensuring every slice is coated.
Remember to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This not only melds the flavors but also helps the cucumbers stay crisp!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
For The Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. So, in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers under cold water. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel them. Then, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large bowl. Don’t forget to slice the red onion thinly as well to keep the flavors balanced!
2. Combine the Vegetables:
Once you have your cucumbers and red onion sliced, mix them together in the same bowl. This will make it easy to coat them with the creamy dressing later.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt with the mayonnaise (if you’re using it). Then add in the chopped dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure the dressing coats all the veggies evenly. It should look creamy and inviting!
5. Chill and Serve:
Give your salad a taste test now. If you think it needs more salt, pepper, or dill, feel free to adjust to your liking. Once you’re satisfied, cover the salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it extra refreshing!
6. Enjoy!
After chilling, take your salad out and maybe add a bit more fresh dill on top for garnish if you’d like. Serve it cold, and enjoy this creamy, refreshing side dish at your next meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for medium cucumbers, you can use English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers. Just note that pickling cucumbers may be crunchier and more flavorful, while English cucumbers have a thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them a great choice if you prefer a smoother texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe, you can substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a lighter yogurt, such as fat-free or low-fat options. You can also reduce or omit the mayonnaise entirely. Additionally, increasing the amount of lemon juice can add brightness without adding calories.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, creamy cucumber salad is great when made ahead! Just prepare it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. However, for the freshest texture, it’s best to add the dressing just a few hours before serving. If the cucumbers release too much water, simply drain the excess liquid before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s normal for the salad to become a bit watery, so you can drain excess liquid before serving again. Just give it a good stir to refresh the flavors!
