Enjoy a creamy cucumber salad that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any meal. This cucumber salad recipe is fresh, flavorful, and easy to make.
Creamy cucumber salad is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that brightens up any breakfast or brunch table. This cucumber salad recipe combines fresh cucumbers with a tangy, creamy dressing that enhances the natural crispness of the veggies. Perfect for hot days or as a light accompaniment, you’ll fall in love with how simple yet flavorful this dish is.
Why You’ll Love It
This creamy cucumber salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly quick to prepare. It uses everyday ingredients and can be customized with your favorite herbs. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with dishes like Easy Weeknight Dinners or a classic Grilled Chicken Recipe, adding a cool, creamy balance that everyone will appreciate.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (substitute with parsley or chives)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness
- 1 teaspoon sugar to balance the flavors
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, adds a mild sharpness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. A mandoline slicer makes this quick and uniform.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, dill, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cucumbers soften slightly.
Expert Tips
For crispest cucumbers, choose firm, unwaxed cucumbers. If your cucumbers are very watery, sprinkle sliced pieces with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid before mixing. Fresh herbs like dill really make the flavor pop, but parsley or basil work well too. This cucumber salad is best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for short periods when entertaining.
Storage
Store your creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2 days, but cucumbers may release additional water over time, so give it a gentle toss before serving. This salad is not ideal for freezing due to texture changes in cucumbers and creamy dressing.
Variations
- Vegan: Use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream substitute.
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free, perfect for all diets.
- Dairy-free: Swap sour cream for coconut or cashew-based cream.
- Low sugar: Omit the sugar or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
FAQ
- What makes this a creamy cucumber salad? The creamy texture comes from sour cream or Greek yogurt, which coats the cucumbers evenly and adds tanginess.
- Can I use other cucumbers? Yes, English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers work well, just adjust slicing thickness.
- How long does cucumber salad last? It’s best enjoyed within 2 days stored in the fridge.
- Is this cucumber salad good for breakfast? Absolutely! It’s a light, fresh side that pairs well with breakfast dishes.
- Can I add other veggies? Yes, try radishes or fresh tomatoes for variety.
Try this creamy cucumber salad today and add a fresh, tangy twist to your meals. Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share with your friends!