This creamy cucumber salad is super refreshing and perfect for those warm days. With cool cucumbers and a smooth dressing, it’s a delicious side dish!
I love making this salad because it’s quick and easy. Plus, I can never resist a crunchy bite. Serve it with grilled meats for a tasty meal—trust me, it’s a hit!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Pick medium-sized cucumbers for the best crunch. You can swap them with seedless cucumbers or English cucumbers if you prefer fewer seeds. I love using Persian cucumbers for their sweetness and crispness, too!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works perfectly. It has a similar tanginess and is higher in protein. I often use it to give my salads a healthy boost.
Mayonnaise: For richer flavor, regular mayo is great. If you want to cut calories, try a light or vegan mayo. I sometimes mix in a bit of avocado for creamy goodness and a healthy fat boost.
Dill: Fresh dill is wonderful, but if it’s out of season, dried dill can do the job. Just remember that dried dill is stronger, so use less. I find fresh herbs make such a difference in salads!
Onion: Red onion is mild and colorful, but you can use green onions or shallots for a different flavor. If you want less bite, soak onion slices in cold water for a few minutes before using.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumber Salad is Extra Creamy and Flavorsome?
The key to achieving that creamy texture and tasty flavor lies in how you combine your ingredients! Start by mixing your sour cream and mayonnaise until fully blended. This creates a smooth base for your salad.
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise first; mix until smooth.
- Next, add all the seasonings—lemon juice, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper—mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
- Then, fold in the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions gently to coat them in that flavorful dressing.
Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes allows the cucumbers to release their juices, making the salad even creamier. This little patience will reward you with perfectly balanced flavors!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. It’s quick to make and perfect for serving at gatherings or as a light side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Creamy Base:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In that bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix these two together until the mixture is nice and smooth. This creamy base is the heart of your salad!
2. Adding the Flavor:
Next, it’s time to add some flavor! Pour in the lemon juice, sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add the chopped dill along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This will create a delicious dressing for your cucumbers!
3. Tossing in the Veggies:
Now, add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion to the creamy dressing. Gently toss the vegetables in the dressing until they are completely coated. This is where the salad starts to come together beautifully!
4. Chilling Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps all those marvelous flavors blend together, making every bite taste even better!
5. Serving the Salad:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a little extra dill if you’d like. Enjoy this deliciously creamy cucumber salad chilled and fresh!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream! It will add a tangy flavor and a bit of extra protein. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt is thicker, so you might want to thin it out with a splash of milk or water if you prefer a creamier consistency.
How Do I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
You can make this creamy cucumber salad dairy-free by using alternatives like coconut yogurt or cashew cream in place of sour cream and mayonnaise. Just check the consistency and flavor to ensure it’s to your liking before serving!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving, as some liquid may separate.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy cucumber salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If it looks a little watery, just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
