This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing treat! With crisp cucumbers and a smooth, tangy dressing, it’s perfect for summer picnics or to cool down a hearty meal.
Honestly, this salad is so quick to whip up that I often make it when I have last-minute guests. Just chop, mix, and serve—everyone loves it! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad. I love using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin—no need to peel! If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work great too.
Red Onion: The addition of red onion adds a mild bite to the salad. If you prefer a milder flavor, use green onions or omit the onions altogether. Sweet onions, like Vidalia, are another tasty substitute.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: You can use sour cream for a rich flavor, but Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative that still makes it creamy. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a blend of tofu and lemon juice!
Vinegar: The recipe calls for white or apple cider vinegar. You can also use lemon juice for a fresher taste. Just adjust the amount to your liking!
Dill: Fresh dill gives this salad a lovely herbal flavor. If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill will work. I suggest starting with about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Cucumbers to Stay Crisp?
To keep your cucumbers from getting soggy, it’s essential to draw out excess water before mixing. Here’s how:
- Once sliced, sprinkle the cucumbers (and onions, if using) with a little salt.
- Let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes. The salt helps to extract moisture.
- After waiting, gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove the excess water.
This small step makes a big difference—it keeps your salad crisp and fresh!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator for the best flavor. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly, either peeling them partially or fully if you prefer. Thin slices help the cucumbers absorb the dressing better and make for a delightful bite!
2. Remove Excess Water:
Place the cucumber slices (and red onion if you’re using it) in a colander. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step will help draw out excess water. After 10 minutes, gently pat the slices dry with paper towels so your salad doesn’t become watery.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt, vinegar, sugar, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cucumber and onion slices to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently to ensure all the slices are coated evenly with the creamy goodness.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and enhances the taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, grab a serving spoon and scoop out the salad into a serving dish. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish with your favorite meals. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cucumber?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are my favorite for this salad due to their firmness and mild flavor, you can use regular cucumbers or even mini cucumbers. Just be aware that regular cucumbers may have more seeds; you can peel them if desired for a smoother texture.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more moisture over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the refrigeration step. It allows the flavors to meld and will save you time when it’s time to serve!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use a blend of silken tofu and lemon juice for a creamy consistency. Alternatively, a dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or almond) will work well too!
