If you’re craving something refreshingly cool, delightfully creamy, and incredibly simple to throw together, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is your new best friend. The crisp cucumbers paired with a smooth, tangy sour cream dressing, brightened by fresh dill and lemon juice, make every bite an irresistible burst of flavor. Whether you’re looking to elevate your BBQ spread, add a fresh side to your lunch, or just enjoy a wholesome snack, this salad fits the bill with ease and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in the salad. Think fresh, crisp cucumbers for crunch, and bright dill for that herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 1/2 lbs cucumbers: Choose English cucumbers for thin skin and less bitterness, or small regular cucumbers peeled if you prefer a softer bite.
- 1/2 medium purple or yellow onion: Thinly sliced for a mild, sweet crunch that complements the cucumbers.
- 1 Tbsp fresh or frozen dill: Chopped, this herb brings a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that is truly classic in cucumber salads.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy base that holds everything together and adds a luscious texture; reduced fat works too if you want it lighter.
- 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness to the dressing that wakes up the palate.
- 1 garlic clove: Pressed or grated to infuse a subtle savory note without overpowering the salad.
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt and a pinch of black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in harmony.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped dill, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This simple dressing locks in all the flavors and will sit while you get the vegetables ready, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions
Peel the cucumbers if their skin feels tough or waxed. Then slice them into thin rounds or, if using larger cucumbers, into half rounds to create a pleasing texture contrast. Add the thinly sliced onion to a large mixing bowl, preparing the fresh base of the salad.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Just before serving, pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Toss gently to make sure every piece is beautifully coated but not smashed. The salad will stay fresh and delicious for about 2 to 3 hours in the fridge, making it perfect for last-minute meals or quick gatherings.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe with a sprinkle of extra fresh dill or a twist of freshly ground black pepper on top. For a pop of color and texture, you can add thinly sliced radishes or a few halved cherry tomatoes. These simple garnishes make the salad look vibrant and inviting on any plate.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken, fish, or even a cozy baked potato. It’s a refreshing contrast to savory or smoky flavors and adds a cool, creamy component that balances richer dishes perfectly. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside roasted veggies or fried tofu for a fresh bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a large glass bowl to show off the vibrant mixture of greens and whites, or portion it into small individual cups for easy picnic or party servings. You can also layer it in a mason jar with the dressing at the bottom and cucumbers on top, shaking it well before eating for a fun and portable option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After tossing the dressing with cucumbers and onions, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad maintains its freshness for up to 2 to 3 days, although it’s best enjoyed the day it’s made for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
Because cucumbers have a high water content, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture would become mushy upon thawing, which detracts from the fresh, crisp experience that makes this salad so delightful.
Reheating
This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary or advised, as it will alter the texture of the cucumbers and the dressing’s fresh appeal.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Absolutely! Just peel and slice regular cucumbers thinly to remove any bitterness from the skin and keep the salad light and fresh.
Is it okay to substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitution if you want a tangier flavor and a lighter option without losing the creamy texture.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge after mixing in the dressing?
Once dressed, the salad stays fresh for about 2 to 3 hours in the refrigerator, so it’s best to dress it right before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add more flavor and color.
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for how easily it elevates any meal with fresh, creamy goodness. It’s light, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor that feels like a cool breeze on a warm day. Give it a try—I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine!
Print
Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and onions tossed in a tangy, herb-infused sour cream dressing. Perfect for warm weather meals or as a crisp complement to grilled dishes, it delivers coolness and creaminess with a hint of lemon and dill.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs cucumbers (2 English cucumbers or 7–10 small ones)
- 1/2 medium purple or yellow onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream (reduced fat accepted)
- 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, pressed or grated
- 1 tbsp fresh or frozen dill, chopped
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- Pinch black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped dill, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the vegetables.
- Slice the cucumbers and onions: Peel the cucumbers if desired, then slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons if the cucumbers are large. Place the sliced cucumbers into a large mixing bowl and add the thinly sliced onions.
- Toss and serve: Just before serving, pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat the vegetables evenly with the creamy dressing. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours without losing its crispness and flavor.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or cream alternative.
- If using regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers, peeling is recommended to reduce bitterness.
- This salad is best served within a few hours of dressing to maintain its crisp texture.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
- Refreshing addition to barbecues, picnics, or light lunches.
