This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and light side dish. With just a few crisp cucumbers, creamy yogurt, and a sprinkle of dill, it’s a breeze to whip up!
Perfect for warm days, this salad gives a satisfying crunch in every bite. I love serving it alongside grilled meats. It’s like a cool hug for your taste buds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad. I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and mild flavor. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work well too. Just peel them if the skin is tough!
Red Onion: This onion adds a nice crunch and color. If red onion is too strong for your taste, you can substitute with green onions or even sweet onions for a milder flavor.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Sour cream gives a classic creamy flavor, but Greek yogurt offers a lighter, healthier twist. You can even use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy, but choose one without added sugars.
Dill: Fresh dill is my favorite for its brightness, but dried dill works in a pinch. If you’re not a fan of dill, you can use parsley or even mint for a different flavor.
How Can I Make the Creamy Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is where the magic happens! It’s simple but so important for the salad’s flavor. Ensure you mix the sour cream or yogurt with vinegar or lemon juice thoroughly; this adds tanginess that counterbalances the rich creaminess. Don’t skip the sugar—it enhances all the flavors.
- Combine all your dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk until fully smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. You can add more salt or vinegar if you prefer a punchier flavor.
- Once your cucumbers and onions are mixed in, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the cucumbers to soften slightly, making them taste even better!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers to remove any dirt. Next, thinly slice them using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. This will help the cucumbers blend nicely with the dressing. Likewise, thinly slice the red onion and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt with the white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it tastes great!
3. Toss the Salad Together:
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers and onions are fully coated in the creamy dressing. Be careful not to bruise the vegetables while mixing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Now comes the waiting part! Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give it a quick stir and taste it again. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and if you like, garnish with a bit more dill on top.
Enjoy this cool and creamy cucumber salad as the perfect side dish for barbecues, sandwiches, or any light meal! It’s refreshing, tasty, and oh-so-easy to make! 🌿🥗
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt gives the salad a lighter texture and adds a lovely tang. It’s a great healthier option, but both will work wonderfully in this recipe.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a quick stir before serving again!
What Other Herbs Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of dill, feel free to substitute with fresh parsley, mint, or even chives for a different flavor profile. Just chop them finely to mix in evenly!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day ahead! Just hold off on mixing the dressing with the cucumbers until a few hours before serving to keep them crisp. Enjoy the flavors melding together in the fridge—yum!
