Quick Description
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect combination of cool, refreshing cucumbers with a rich, creamy dressing. It’s the ideal side dish for warm weather or any meal that needs a fresh, crisp element. With the tang of vinegar, the sweetness of sugar, and the earthy flavors of dill, this salad is a hit at barbecues, picnics, and dinner tables alike. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes, making it a go-to dish for busy days!
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4–6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 Long English Cucumber (thinly sliced for extra crunch)
- 1/2 Red Onion (thinly sliced—white onion can be used as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream (for a creamy base)
- 1 tablespoon Dill (fresh dill adds the perfect burst of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons White Vinegar (adds tanginess and balance to the creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar or Sweetener (Monkfruit was used in this version, but feel free to adjust based on preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (season to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder (adds a savory touch to the dressing)
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Cucumber & Onion
Start by thinly slicing the cucumber and red onion. For the cucumber, it’s best to use a Long English cucumber as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for a fresh salad. You can also peel the cucumber if you prefer. Thin slices allow the salad to absorb the creamy dressing better.
Step 2 — Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon dill
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or preferred sweetener)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Stir until the ingredients are fully combined into a smooth dressing. Taste and adjust the sweetness, salt, or vinegar as needed to suit your preferences.
Step 3 — Combine the Vegetables and Dressing
Add the sliced cucumber and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the vegetables in the dressing, making sure everything is evenly coated. If you prefer a creamier salad, you can add more sour cream or vinegar to balance the richness.
Step 4 — Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cucumbers time to soften slightly.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Additional Notes
- Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of vinegar or sugar based on your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a tangier salad, add an extra splash of vinegar.
- Dill: Fresh dill is highly recommended for its burst of flavor, but you can use dried dill if that’s what you have on hand. Just use 1/3 of the amount if using dried herbs.
- Cucumber Tip: If you’re using regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them to reduce bitterness and remove the seeds, but English cucumbers are usually perfect as is!
Dietary Info
- Low-Carb: This creamy cucumber salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great side dish for those on low-carb or keto diets.
- Dairy-Based: While creamy and indulgent, this recipe contains sour cream, making it unsuitable for dairy-free diets unless substituted with plant-based alternatives.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar Option: By using a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia, this salad becomes even healthier for those watching their sugar intake.
Variations
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh parsley, mint, or chives for extra freshness. These herbs will add different layers of flavor to the salad.
- Vegan Version: To make this salad vegan, simply swap the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like vegan sour cream or cashew cream.
- Add More Veggies: You can mix in other fresh veggies like tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado to boost the nutritional value and add more color.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers will release some water over time, so be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors actually improve with time, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! While white vinegar is typically used, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor or even balsamic vinegar for a sweeter note.
Q: How do I make this salad spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño to the salad for a spicy twist.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can easily add grilled chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas to make this a more filling meal.
Call-to-Action
Looking for a refreshing and creamy side dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners? Try this Creamy Cucumber Salad today! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share a pic of your creation and tag me with #CreamyCucumberDelight!
