Introduction
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a timeless side dish known for its refreshing taste and cool, crisp texture. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a quick side to complement a hearty main dish, this salad is an easy and delicious solution. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, this classic dish delivers big flavor with little effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Requires just a handful of common pantry staples
- Quick to prepare: Ready in under 15 minutes
- Cool and refreshing: Ideal for warm days or as a palate cleanser
- Versatile pairing: Goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or rice dishes
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after a short chill
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional for added bite)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for added richness)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons.
- If using red onion, slice it thinly as well.
- Optional: Lightly salt the cucumbers and place them in a colander for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry before using.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), vinegar or lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and dill.
- Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the sliced cucumbers (and onions if using) to the bowl of dressing.
- Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 20–30 minutes before serving.
- Stir again before plating and garnish with extra dill if desired.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Note: The salad may release some liquid over time—simply stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~80
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Values are approximate and vary depending on ingredients used.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternatives
- Tangy twist: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing
- Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or a few red pepper flakes
- Low-fat: Use low-fat yogurt or skip the mayonnaise
Pairing Suggestions
Creamy cucumber salad complements a wide variety of dishes, including:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Baked or fried fish
- Veggie burgers or falafel
- Quiche or savory pies
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cucumber Salad is one of those recipes that manages to be both humble and irresistible. Its simplicity is its strength, and it offers a cool contrast to rich, spicy, or grilled foods. Whether you’re adding it to a summer spread or prepping it for a healthy lunch, it’s a dish that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.