This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is refreshing and quick to make. Just mix cucumbers with a yummy creamy dressing, and you’re all set for a light side dish!
It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, and I can’t resist sneaking bites before it’s even on the table. Who can blame me? 😉
I love serving this salad with grilled meats or sandwiches. It’s so simple yet adds that crunchy, creamy goodness to any meal! You’ll want it at every picnic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch, go for fresh, firm cucumbers. English cucumbers are my favorite as they’re less bitter and have thinner skins. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work fine, but consider peeling them to reduce bitterness.
Red Onion: This adds a mild sweetness and a pop of color. If you find red onion too sharp, you can use green onions or skip it altogether; your salad will still be delicious!
Sour Cream: Sour cream gives a rich creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a great swap if you’re looking for a healthier option. You can also mix half of each for a good balance!
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill brings a lovely herbaceous flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill is fine—just remember it’s more concentrated, so use less (about 1 teaspoon).
How Do You Make the Salad Extra Creamy?
To create a super creamy texture, make sure to combine the dressing ingredients thoroughly before adding the cucumbers. Here are a few tips to perfect it:
- Mix the sour cream (or yogurt) with vinegar, sugar, and seasonings well. It ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Be gentle when folding cucumbers into the dressing so they stay intact and crisp.
- Letting the salad chill allows the cucumbers to release a bit of their moisture, making every bite irresistible.
Enjoy the creamy goodness with your favorite dishes, and feel free to modify the seasonings to fit your taste!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Overall, it’s a quick and easy dish to whip up that’s perfect for serving at any meal or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds a lovely crunch and vitamins! Next, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Then, thinly slice the red onion. Getting everything nice and thin helps the flavors blend beautifully.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing is what makes the salad so creamy and delicious!
3. Combine the Salad:
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together, making sure all the cucumber and onion slices are coated with the creamy dressing. This step is crucial for that tasty, uniform flavor.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a quick stir. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a little more fresh dill on top. Serve this yummy salad chilled alongside your favorite BBQ or summer dish!
Enjoy this crisp and creamy salad as a refreshing side dish perfect for summertime meals or BBQs!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are great choices, you can also use rice vinegar for a milder taste or red wine vinegar for a bit more depth. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will vary slightly with each type.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and the flavors will enhance as it sits!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness. The cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the dressing if adding more veggies to keep it well-coated!
