This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish, perfect for summer! It’s made with cool cucumbers, creamy yogurt, and a touch of spices for flavor.
I love making this salad when it’s hot outside. It’s quick, light, and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use firm, fresh cucumbers for crunch. English cucumbers are a favorite because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. You can replace them with Persian cucumbers if you can’t find English ones.
Red Onion: Red onions give a nice color and slight sweetness. If they feel too strong, you can substitute them with green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: I prefer Greek yogurt for a tangy taste and a lighter option. You can use plain yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt if you want to make this recipe vegan.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a delicious herbal note. If you’re out of dill, you can use parsley or even a pinch of dried herbs like Italian seasoning instead.
Vinegar/Lemon Juice: I like using lemon juice for a zesty flavor, but white vinegar works just fine. Apple cider vinegar could also add a unique twist!
How Do I Get the Perfect Cucumber Texture?
Getting the right texture in your cucumber salad is key! Salting the cucumbers is a fantastic trick to remove excess water, ensuring your salad stays crisp and doesn’t become watery. Here’s how:
- Slice the cucumbers and place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle a bit of salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse them off to remove excess salt and pat dry with a paper towel before mixing.
Doing this ensures a crunchy salad that won’t get soggy. Enjoy your fresh, creamy cucumber salad!
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 2 medium cucumbers)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld. In no time, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly; if you prefer, you can peel the skin for a softer texture. The goal is to have crisp, thin slices that absorb the dressing nicely.
2. Slice the Onions:
Next, take your red onion and slice it thinly. The red onion will add flavor and a pop of color to your salad. Set it aside once it’s sliced.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), white vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Using a whisk, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This is the creamy part of your salad!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions into the bowl with your dressing. Gently toss everything together to ensure each piece is well coated. This is where all those fresh flavors come together!
5. Chill Out!
Cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors really blend and makes the salad extra refreshing.
6. Season to Taste:
After chilling, give your salad a taste test! Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. You can also garnish with additional fresh dill for an extra touch of flavor.
7. Serve it Up:
Serve your creamy cucumber salad chilled as a perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats, sandwiches, or any summer meal. It’s so delicious and refreshing!
Enjoy your Creamy Cucumber Salad, and share it with family and friends at your next gathering!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a tender skin, or Persian cucumbers for their sweet flavor. Just make sure they’re fresh for the best crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so give it a gentle stir before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be aware that the salad may become a bit more watery as it sits, so you might want to drain any excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Use a Different Dressing Base?
Yes! If sour cream or yogurt isn’t your thing, you can try using a dairy-free yogurt or a simple vinaigrette. Just adjust the seasonings to keep the flavor bright and refreshing!
