Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor—this Creamy Cucumber Salad is the ultimate side dish for warm-weather meals. With crisp cucumbers, tangy sour cream dressing, and a touch of dill, it’s a simple recipe that always shines at summer gatherings, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.
📝 Recipe Card
Author: Judy Wilson
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Badges
✅ Vegetarian
✅ Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ cup sour cream (use full-fat for creamiest texture)
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
🍳 Instructions
-
Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
-
Add Veggies
- Add cucumber slices and red onion to the bowl.
-
Toss to Coat
- Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
-
Finish & Chill
- Sprinkle with fresh dill. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
🌟 Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & Easy → Ready in just 10 minutes (plus chill time).
- Fresh & Light → Perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and crisp.
- Crowd-Pleaser → A side dish that pairs well with just about anything.
- Make-Ahead Friendly → Flavors develop beautifully after chilling.
🍽 Tips & Variations
- Extra Crunch → Leave cucumber skins on for added texture.
- Herb Swap → Use parsley, mint, or chives if you don’t have dill.
- Tangier Dressing → Add a squeeze of lemon juice or swap vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
- Low-Carb Option → Omit sugar or use a keto-friendly sweetener.
🥡 Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Stir gently before serving again, as cucumbers release water over time.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
Q: Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
A: Not required. Keep the skins on for extra crunch and nutrients.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Absolutely! It will give a tangier flavor and a protein boost.
✨ This Creamy Cucumber Salad is everything you want in a summer side: crisp, creamy, and cooling. Serve it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or on its own for a refreshing snack.