This creamy cucumber salad is super cool and refreshing! It’s made with crunchy cucumbers, smooth yogurt, and a hint of dill, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Honestly, I could eat this salad all day! It’s light and tasty, and the best part? It takes just minutes to whip up. Perfect for those hot summer days when you want something cool!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are key for their crunch and freshness in this salad. If you can’t find regular cucumbers, try using English cucumbers; they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. You can even opt for Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste!
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice bite to the salad. If you prefer a milder flavor, you could use green onions or even sweet onions like Vidalia. Just be cautious with the quantity to keep the salad balanced in flavors.
Sour Cream: This gives the dressing its creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt. It will still provide creaminess while adding a protein boost!
Mayonnaise: The mayo adds richness. If you want a healthier choice, try using avocado instead; it will add creaminess without the dairy. Also, you can use vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Dill: Fresh dill elevates the flavor, but if it’s not available, dried dill works just fine. For a twist, try fresh parsley or mint for a different herbaceous touch!
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Creamy?
Getting the dressing just right is essential for a delicious cucumber salad. Start by combining the sour cream and mayonnaise in a large bowl. Mixing these two first creates a creamy base. Then, add the dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until everything is smooth; a whisk can help combine everything more thoroughly.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end. If it tastes a little bland, a pinch of salt can go a long way!
- Be gentle when combining the dressing with the cucumbers and onions to keep their texture intact.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a chilling time of at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy this nice, refreshing salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base for your salad!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the sliced cucumbers and the thinly sliced red onion to your bowl of dressing. This is where the salad starts to come together!
3. Toss Everything Together:
Gently toss the sliced cucumbers and onions with the dressing until everything is well coated. Make sure all the veggies are enjoying the creamy goodness.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together and makes the salad even tastier!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to mix everything again. Taste it, and if you think it needs a little more salt or pepper, feel free to adjust it. Enjoy your creamy cucumber salad chilled for a delightful treat!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will add a nice tangy flavor. Just make sure to choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt to keep the dressing balanced. It may also be a bit thicker, so you might want to thin it out with a little milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Creamy Cucumber Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cucumbers may release some water during storage, so give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad can be made up to a day in advance, which helps the flavors develop. Just prepare everything as usual but wait to add the cucumbers until a few hours before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill, no worries! You can use dried dill as a substitute—just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, if you love experimenting, you can try using fresh parsley or chives for a different taste profile.
