Name: Creamy Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons Distilled white vinegar; 2 small cloves Garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon Granulated sugar or honey; ¾ teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Fresh dill; 2 English cucumbers about 1 ½ pounds; ½ red or yellow onion Thinly sliced

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I’ve always had a soft spot for refreshing salads, and there’s something particularly delightful about a Creamy Cucumber Salad. I remember the first time I tasted this dish at a summer gathering. It was a warm day, and the crispness of the cucumbers paired with the creamy dressing felt so refreshing. The blend of sour cream and vinegar created a tangy and luscious flavor that complemented the garden-fresh ingredients perfectly. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a memory, an experience that brings smiles and laughter to any table.

Every summer, my family and I make it a point to whip up a batch of Creamy Cucumber Salad during our picnics. The kids love helping out, slicing the cucumbers and mixing the dressing, while I take care of the onions and dill. It’s a fun family activity that results in a dish everyone looks forward to. Whether it’s served as a side or a main event, this salad never disappoints. Its simplicity and refreshing flavors make it an instant favorite.

So if you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare, incredibly tasty, and perfect for hot summer days, the Creamy Cucumber Salad is your answer. You’ll find it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish. Every bite offers a burst of flavor that transports you to sun-soaked gatherings, making it the ideal recipe for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Mandoline

Why You Need This Creamy Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and Light

The crisp texture of cucumbers combined with the creamy dressing creates a refreshing and light dish, perfect for hot summer days. The coolness of the salad makes it an ideal accompaniment to barbecued foods.

Versatile Dish

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a side dish, or even toss in some protein to make it a light meal. The possibilities are endless!

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Preparing this salad is a breeze. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Family-Friendly

Kids adore this salad! The creamy dressing and crunchy cucumbers are always a hit with little ones, making it easier to encourage them to enjoy their veggies.

Healthy Ingredients

With cucumbers, dill, and a yogurt-based dressing, this salad is packed with nutrients. It’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Seasonal Treat

Made with fresh summer produce, this salad is a celebration of the season’s bounty. It’s a fantastic way to utilize local garden-fresh ingredients.

What You’ll Need for Creamy Cucumber Salad

The ingredients for this Creamy Cucumber Salad are simple yet effective. Each ingredient plays a significant role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The key players include crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and creamy sour cream, making for a delightful combination that you won’t forget.

Sour cream or Greek yogurt – ½ cup: This serves as the creamy base of the dressing, adding richness and a tangy flavor.
Distilled white vinegar – 2 tablespoons: It provides the right amount of acidity, balancing the creaminess of the dressing.
Garlic – 2 small cloves, minced: This adds a warm and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Granulated sugar or honey – ½ teaspoon: A touch of sweetness to counterbalance the tartness of the vinegar.
Salt – ¾ teaspoon: Essential for seasoning the dressing and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
Fresh dill – 2 tablespoons: This herb adds a refreshing and fragrant element to the salad.
English cucumbers – 2, about 1 ½ pounds: Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them the star of the dish.
Red or yellow onion – ½, thinly sliced: Adds a bit of crunch and sharpness to the salad.

Directions for Creamy Cucumber Salad

Making this Creamy Cucumber Salad is as easy as pie. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fresh salad ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, vinegar, garlic, sugar, salt, and dill. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Next, take your English cucumbers and slice them into about ¼ inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or a mandoline. The key is to make them uniform in size for even mixing.
Now, add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with your dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each slice is well-coated in that creamy goodness.
Next, add the thinly sliced onion to the bowl and give it another gentle toss, mixing everything together.
At this point, you can let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour. This step is optional, but it allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
When you’re ready to serve, transfer the salad to a beautiful serving bowl. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a grind of fresh cracked black pepper on top for added flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Choose Quality Cucumbers: Select fresh, firm English cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or chives to personalize the flavor.
Chill for Best Flavor: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to develop, making it even more delicious.
Slice Evenly: When slicing cucumbers, aim for even thickness to ensure uniform texture in every bite.

Expert Tips about Creamy Cucumber Salad

To ensure your Creamy Cucumber Salad is a hit, consider these expert tips. They’ll help you elevate your dish to a whole new level.

Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may release moisture over time.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it will alter the texture of the cucumbers and dressing.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great addition to summer barbecues.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vinegars or add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist!

Side Dish Ideas for Creamy Cucumber Salad

When it comes to serving your Creamy Cucumber Salad, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside succulent grilled chicken for a perfect summer meal.
Fish Tacos: This refreshing salad complements the flavors of fish tacos beautifully.
Barbecue Ribs: The creamy texture of the salad balances out the bold flavors of barbecue ribs.
Picnic Delight: Ideal for potlucks or picnics, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch option, especially on hot days.
Vegetable Platter: Pair it with a variety of fresh veggies for a crunchy and colorful spread.

FAQ

If you prefer a thicker dressing for your Creamy Cucumber Salad, you can reduce the amount of vinegar or increase the quantity of sour cream. Another great option is to add some finely chopped nuts or a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

You can definitely prepare the Creamy Cucumber Salad in advance. However, it’s best to add the cucumbers and onions shortly before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft and losing their crunch. Make the dressing ahead of time and keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness.

This salad is incredibly versatile! You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even a splash of lemon juice for added flavor. If you want a different herb experience, try substituting dill with fresh mint or basil. Get creative with the additions!

Yes! The Creamy Cucumber Salad is a low-carb option as it primarily consists of cucumbers and a creamy dressing without any heavy carbohydrates. It’s great for those watching their carb intake while still enjoying a flavorful dish.

Conclusion

The Creamy Cucumber Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that truly captures the essence of summer. With its refreshing ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish you simply must try. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just need a quick side, this salad will impress. So why not whip it up today? It’s not just a salad; it’s a taste of summer goodness!