This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers and smooth, creamy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
Honestly, who can resist a salad that feels like a cool breeze on a warm day? Toss everything together, and you’ve got a dish that’s tasty and quick to make. I love serving it cold—it makes it extra delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, firm cucumbers with skin for crunch. If you prefer less bitterness, consider peeling them. English cucumbers are a great alternative as they’re less watery and have fewer seeds.
Onion: Red onion adds sweetness and a mild flavor. If you find raw onion too strong, green onions or shallots are good substitutes. They will give a softer bite.
Sour Cream: I like using sour cream for its rich flavor, but Greek yogurt works wonderfully too. It’s healthier and adds a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based yogurt!
Dill: Fresh dill gives the salad a bright flavor. However, if you don’t have it, dried dill works in a pinch. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Make the Cucumber Salad Creamy Without Overdoing It?
The dressing is key to a creamy cucumber salad. Make sure to whisk the sour cream (or yogurt) with vinegar and sugar until smooth. This will help the flavors blend nicely.
- Mix the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl before adding it to the veggies. This ensures the flavors are balanced.
- Don’t forcefully mix the salad. Gently toss so the cucumbers stay crisp!
- Refrigerating before serving not only cools the salad but also helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (including skin)
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge, making a total of about 45 minutes. It’s a quick dish to whip up, perfect for a side at dinner or a picnic treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
Start by slicing the cucumbers and onion thinly. This helps them soak up the dressing better and keeps the salad fresh and crunchy. Put the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl, ready to mix!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until it’s smooth. This creamy dressing will give our salad its awesome flavor!
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss everything together. Make sure every cucumber slice is coated, so it tastes deliciously creamy!
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend perfectly and makes it extra refreshing on a warm day.
5. Final Touches Before Serving:
After the salad has chilled, give it one last gentle toss. Taste it and add extra salt or pepper if you like. Now it’s all set to serve! You can dish it out as a side or enjoy it on its own.
Enjoy the cool, creamy, and slightly tangy bite of this refreshing cucumber salad! It’s bound to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can use English cucumbers, which are seedless and have a thinner skin, or regular cucumbers if that’s what you have on hand. If you prefer, you can peel them too—just make sure to slice them thinly for the best texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Salad?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may release water over time, making the salad a bit watery. Give it a gentle stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator as the flavors meld. Just toss it again before serving for an even distribution of flavors!
What Other Herbs Can I Add?
If you’re a fan of different flavors, feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a twist! Just remember to adjust the quantities based on your preference, and enjoy experimenting!
