There’s something so refreshing about a chilled cucumber salad, especially when it’s coated in a creamy, tangy dressing that bursts with flavor. This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a classic side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.
With crisp cucumber slices, red onions, and a luscious dressing made with sour cream, vinegar, and herbs, this salad comes together in minutes and only gets better as it chills. Whether you’re looking for a light accompaniment to grilled meats or a cool dish for a warm day, this cucumber salad is guaranteed to hit the spot with its creamy crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy cucumber salad is everything a side dish should be—light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to prepare. What makes it a standout is the balance of flavors: the cool, crisp cucumbers are perfectly complemented by the creamy tang of the dressing, which is elevated with a touch of dill, garlic, and vinegar. It’s a wonderful alternative to heavier sides like pasta or potato salads and is naturally low in carbs and gluten-free.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It pairs well with a wide range of main dishes—from grilled chicken and fish to burgers and vegetarian mains. Plus, it can be easily adapted to your taste. Want it a little sweeter?
Add a pinch of sugar. Prefer a yogurt base? Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. It’s a forgiving, customizable salad that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this creamy cucumber salad is that it’s make-ahead friendly. In fact, preparing it in advance can actually enhance the flavors. For best results, slice the cucumbers and onions and sprinkle them with a little salt, then let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, which helps prevent a watery salad later. After draining them well, pat them dry and mix with the dressing.
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. If you’re making it more than a day ahead, consider keeping the dressing and cucumbers separate until just before serving.
This way, the cucumbers stay crisp, and the salad remains fresh. If it looks a little watery the next day, simply stir it and add a touch more sour cream to refresh the texture before serving. It’s the perfect prep-ahead dish for stress-free entertaining!
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumbers:
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly using a knife or mandoline. If desired, peel the cucumbers for a softer texture. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
Slice the Onion:
Peel and thinly slice the red onion. If the flavor is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Salad:
Add the cucumbers and onions to the dressing. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir well and garnish with additional dill or cracked pepper if desired.
Tips for a Better Cucumber Salad
- Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a sweeter taste.
- Always salt and drain cucumbers to avoid a watery dressing later.
- Slice cucumbers evenly for a consistent texture—using a mandoline helps.
- Fresh dill adds the best flavor, but dried dill works in a pinch.
- Add-ins like chopped chives, a sprinkle of paprika, or even crumbled feta can elevate the salad to suit your tastes.
- Taste before serving—chilling can mellow flavors, so adjust salt, pepper, or acidity as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It adds a similar tang with a lighter texture and more protein.
2. How long can this cucumber salad be stored?
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a stir before serving, and drain off any excess liquid if necessary.
3. What if I don’t have fresh dill?
You can use dried dill (about 1 teaspoon) or substitute with parsley or chives for a different herbaceous flavor.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado can be great additions for extra flavor and color.
This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that belongs in your regular recipe rotation. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, it’s a stress-free side that delivers big on freshness and creamy deliciousness.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or just making a weeknight meal more special, this salad is a guaranteed hit. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Refreshing, customizable, and oh-so-easy—what’s not to love?