This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a timeless classic, combining crisp, fresh cucumbers with a rich, tangy dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and vibrant fresh dill. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a creamy, refreshing flavor that perfectly complements any summer meal or gathering. Get ready to enjoy your new favorite go-to salad!
The Best Creamy Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Summer Side Dish
There’s something uniquely comforting and refreshing about a simple cucumber salad, especially one generously coated in a creamy dressing. For many, including myself, the act of slicing fresh cucumbers immediately brings back cherished childhood memories of warm summer days and family gatherings. If you’re new to the delightful world of creamy cucumber salads, or perhaps only familiar with vinegar-based versions, the combination might sound a bit unconventional. However, this particular recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh produce and balanced flavors. Its cool, crisp texture paired with the rich, slightly sweet, and tangy dressing makes it an irresistible addition to any table. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly at picnics and potlucks, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. If you appreciate the cool, zesty notes of Tzatziki sauce, then you are almost guaranteed to fall in love with this creamy, dilly cucumber creation. It’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of main courses, from grilled meats to spicy dishes, offering a palate-cleansing contrast.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a delightful culinary experience that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why this creamy cucumber salad deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:
- Effortlessly Simple: With just a handful of fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in under 15 minutes of active prep time.
- Incredibly Refreshing: Cucumbers are naturally hydrating and cooling, making this salad an ideal choice for hot summer days or as a crisp counterpoint to heavier meals.
- Versatile Pairing: It complements almost any main dish, from BBQ chicken to spicy Asian-inspired cuisine, and is a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture and balanced sweet and tangy flavor profile appeal to almost everyone, even those who might typically shy away from vegetables.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a festive holiday meal, a backyard barbecue, or a community potluck, this salad fits right in.
What Our Readers Are Saying
“I have been making your recipe for years! It is my go-to for Creamy Cucumber Salad and everyone raves about it. Thank you Brandie! – Lee Ann”
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cucumber Salad
English cucumbers, often labeled as “seedless” or “hothouse” cucumbers, are distinguished by their longer, slender shape, thin, edible skin, and minimal, tiny seeds. Unlike traditional field cucumbers, there’s no need to peel English cucumbers, saving you time and retaining extra nutrients. Their mild flavor and crisp texture make them perfect for salads. You can typically find English cucumbers wrapped in plastic (to preserve moisture) in the produce section of most grocery stores, usually alongside other cucumber varieties.
It’s common for cucumber salad to release water over time, as cucumbers are naturally very high in moisture. To minimize this, a simple trick is to “salt” the sliced cucumbers before mixing them into the dressing. Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle them generously with salt, and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture. After this, gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel. A quick rinse might also be helpful if you’re concerned about the salad becoming too salty, but patting dry usually suffices. While this method significantly reduces wateriness, a little liquid at the bottom of the bowl is still normal and adds to the dressing. Remember, you don’t want to extract *all* the water, as that would compromise the cucumber’s fresh taste and texture.
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Its cool and creamy profile makes it an excellent contrast to spicy foods, such as zesty Buffalo Chicken Wings or fiery Nashville Hot Chicken. It’s also a fantastic companion to grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or fish, offering a refreshing balance. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside sandwiches or as part of a Mediterranean platter. It’s truly a potluck and BBQ favorite, effortlessly enhancing any spread. If you’re bringing it to an outdoor event, be sure to keep it chilled on ice to maintain its freshness and creamy texture.
For optimal flavor and texture, Creamy Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed on the day it’s made. The cucumbers will continue to release water as they sit, which can thin out the dressing and make the salad less crisp. While it can last up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator, expect it to become progressively more watery. If you anticipate leftovers, consider adding a little extra fresh dill and a pinch more salt before serving the second day to revive its flavors.
Unfortunately, Creamy Cucumber Salad does not freeze well. Due to their high water content, cucumbers become mushy and lose their crisp texture once frozen and thawed. The creamy dressing can also separate and develop an undesirable consistency. For the best culinary experience, this salad should always be prepared fresh and enjoyed chilled, never frozen.
Essential Ingredients for a Luscious Creamy Cucumber Salad
Crafting the perfect creamy cucumber salad starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the desired balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need and why each choice matters:
- English Cucumbers: These are my top choice for their tender, thin skin and minimal seeds, which means no peeling is necessary and fewer bitter notes. If English cucumbers aren’t available, regular garden cucumbers can be used; however, I recommend peeling them and scooping out the larger seeds to ensure the best texture and taste in your salad.
- Red Onion: Adds a crisp bite and a subtle tang that complements the creamy dressing beautifully. For a milder onion flavor, or if you prefer a more delicate touch, thinly sliced shallots make an excellent substitute.
- Sour Cream: Forms the rich, tangy base of our creamy dressing. For a lighter alternative or to add a probiotic boost, plain Greek yogurt can be swapped in, offering a similar tang with added protein.
- Mayonnaise: Contributes to the luscious, velvety texture and rich flavor of the dressing. If you’re a fan of its distinctive sweet and tangy profile, Miracle Whip can be used as a substitute.
- Fresh Dill: This herb is non-negotiable for an authentic and aromatic creamy cucumber salad. Its bright, slightly anise-like flavor elevates the entire dish. While dried dill can be used in a pinch, fresh dill truly makes all the difference in achieving that vibrant, quintessential taste.
- White Vinegar: Provides the essential sharp tang that balances the richness of the sour cream and mayonnaise. I strongly advise against using apple cider vinegar, as its fruity notes can overpower the delicate cucumber and dill flavors. Rice wine vinegar, with its milder acidity, would be a suitable alternative if white vinegar is not available.
- White Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar is key to achieving the classic sweet and sour profile that defines this salad. If you prefer a savory salad or are monitoring sugar intake, you can certainly omit it or use a sugar substitute to taste.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Add to taste to enhance all the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Creating this delicious creamy cucumber salad is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps for a refreshing dish every time:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by washing your English cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scrape out the small seeds from each half; this step helps prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Then, slice the cucumber halves into uniform ¼-inch slices. Place these crisp cucumber slices into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the Onions: Thinly slice your red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: sour cream, mayonnaise, freshly chopped dill, white vinegar, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps and the sugar has dissolved.
- Combine and Coat: Pour the freshly prepared creamy dressing over the cucumbers and onions in the large mixing bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss the ingredients together until all the cucumber and onion slices are thoroughly coated with the luscious dressing.
- Chill to Perfection: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the salad is delightfully cool and refreshing when served.
- Season and Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with a little extra fresh dill for an appealing presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad
- Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Always select firm, unblemished cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. Limp cucumbers will result in a soggy salad.
- Don’t Skimp on Dill: Fresh dill is paramount. Its unique aroma and flavor are what make this salad truly special. If you can only find dried dill, use about one-third of the amount of fresh dill, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, always taste your salad. Adjust the sugar, salt, and vinegar to your preference. Some prefer it sweeter, others tangier.
- Optimal Chilling Time: While 1 hour is the minimum, chilling the salad for 2-3 hours can further enhance the flavors as they have more time to meld.
- Serving Temperature: This salad is best served thoroughly chilled. Warm cucumber salad loses much of its refreshing appeal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This versatile creamy cucumber salad is a fantastic accompaniment to a multitude of main courses and gatherings. Its cooling properties make it an ideal partner for anything grilled, fried, or spicy. Try it alongside:
- Grilled Meats: Chicken, pork chops, or even a simple steak benefit from the refreshing contrast.
- Fried Foods: Perfect with crispy fried chicken or fish, cutting through the richness.
- Spicy Dishes: A wonderful cooling element for spicy curries, tacos, or hot chicken.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: A fresh and light side instead of chips or fries.
- Potlucks and BBQs: Always a popular choice at outdoor events and gatherings.
- Mediterranean Cuisine: Complements falafel, gyros, and other Mediterranean-inspired meals beautifully.
Craving More Refreshing Recipes?
If you loved this creamy cucumber salad, you’re in for a treat! Explore these other fantastic recipes that celebrate fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors:
- Marinated Tomato Cucumber Salad
- Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread
- Vinegar Cucumber Salad
- Mayonnaise Salad Dressing
- Carrot Salad
- Apple Fruit Salad
- Watermelon Salad
- Southern Ambrosia
- Bread and Butter Pickles
- Marinated Green Bean Salad
- Refrigerator Pickles
- Succotash
Originally published: August 2011
Updated photos & republished: March 2024
Creamy Cucumber Salad
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is made with fresh cucumbers, sour cream, mayonnaise and fresh dill. So easy and creamy! Perfect summer salad!
Based on 38 Reviews
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Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers
- ½ cup sliced red (or white) onions
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chopped fresh dill (optional, but highly recommended for best flavor)
- 3 Tablespoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
Instructions
Slice the cucumbers: Wash and dry the English cucumbers. Cut them in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to gently scrape out the seeds. Slice the cucumber halves into ¼-inch thick, crescent-shaped pieces.
Precisely sliced cucumbers for optimal texture. Combine cucumbers and onions: Place the sliced cucumbers and thinly sliced red (or white) onions into a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the dressing: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh dill, white vinegar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Whisking the luscious, creamy dressing ingredients. Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers and onions in the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Coating the fresh vegetables with the creamy dressing. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. This is crucial for the best taste and refreshing experience.
Taste and serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if preferred. Serve cold and enjoy as a perfect side dish.
The salad, covered and chilling, allowing flavors to develop.
Video
Notes
For more detailed information on ingredient substitutions, tips for preventing wateriness, and answers to common questions, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient discussion sections above.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 5g |
Protein: 1g |
Fat: 9g |
Sodium: 63mg |
Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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