This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers and a silky dressing. It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a light side dish at dinner!
I love how simple it is to make—just mix it up and let it chill. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats! Who can say no to that crispy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are essential for that crunchy texture. You can use English cucumbers for less seeds or Persian cucumbers for a sweeter flavor. If cucumbers aren’t available, try using zucchini as a substitute.
Red Onion: Red onions add a bit of color and mild flavor. If they’re too strong for you, yellow onions are a sweeter alternative. Green onions can also work for a milder taste.
Sour Cream: This is key for the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. However, it will slightly change the taste.
Mayonnaise: Mayo adds creaminess. You can swap it for more sour cream or Greek yogurt if you prefer. For a lighter version, try using a vegan mayo.
Dill: Fresh dill brings great flavor! If you don’t have it, try using any dried herbs you like, such as parsley or even thyme. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use less.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Well Combined?
Mixing the dressing properly is key to flavoring the salad. Start with a medium bowl to whisk the dressing ingredients well before adding them to the vegetables. This gives a smoother consistency.
- In your mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, dill, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Make sure there are no lumps. If you’re using yogurt instead, ensure it’s well blended.
- Taste your dressing—a little tweak of salt or vinegar can make a big difference!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a cool, refreshing side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by taking your cucumbers and red onion. Thinly slice the cucumbers and onion, and then place them in a large bowl. This will be the base of your salad.
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, add the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill (or dried dill if that’s what you have), white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad special!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, pour your dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together so all the cucumbers and onions are coated evenly in the creamy dressing. You want to be gentle here to keep the cucumbers crispy!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors blend together beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, give it a little stir and enjoy your refreshing salad chilled!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It will give the salad a similar creamy texture with added protein. Just use the same amount, and you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly to match your taste since Greek yogurt is tangier.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with a plant-based sour cream and vegan mayonnaise. There are many tasty options available in stores, or you can even make your own using soaked cashews blended with lemon juice and a bit of water for the sour cream.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This creamy cucumber salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Just give it a gentle toss before serving, as some of the dressing might settle at the bottom.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also brighten the salad!
