There’s nothing quite like a Creamy Cucumber Salad to cool down a warm day. Crisp, refreshing cucumbers are enveloped in a rich, tangy dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a hint of fresh dill—a perfect balance of creamy and bright. This salad is a timeless summer side dish, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any picnic spread. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving a light and flavorful side, this easy salad delivers a burst of freshness in every bite.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
🥒 Main Ingredients:
2 large cucumbers – The star of the dish! Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a tender bite, or garden cucumbers for extra crunch. Thinly slicing them ensures they absorb the dressing perfectly.
½ red onion (optional) – Adds a subtle bite and a pop of color. Red onion enhances the salad’s flavor without overpowering the creamy dressing.
🍶 Creamy Dressing:
½ cup sour cream – Provides the creamy, tangy base. Sour cream adds richness while keeping the salad light.
¼ cup mayonnaise – Balances the tang with smoothness and helps the dressing cling to the cucumbers.
2 tablespoons white vinegar – Brightens up the flavors and adds that irresistible tangy kick.
1 tablespoon sugar – Softens the acidity and enhances the cucumbers’ natural sweetness.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – The key to that fresh, garden flavor. Dill adds aroma and a burst of herbal freshness.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning; they bring out all the other flavors in the salad.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers (about ⅛-inch thick). You can use a mandoline for even slices.
If using regular cucumbers, sprinkle them with ½ teaspoon of salt and let them sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess water.
Pat dry with paper towels. This step keeps your salad from becoming watery.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dill Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more vinegar for tang or a touch more sugar for balance.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Add the sliced cucumbers (and red onion, if using) to the bowl with the dressing.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with everyday ingredients, yet bursting with freshness and creaminess.
Perfect Summer Side: Light, cool, and refreshing — it complements grilled chicken, burgers, or fish beautifully.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep, potlucks, and BBQs.
Versatile: You can customize it by adding sliced radishes, chopped chives, or even a touch of garlic powder for extra zing.
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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad
1. Drain the cucumbers well – This prevents a watery salad and keeps the dressing rich and creamy.
2. Use fresh dill – Dried dill won’t deliver the same brightness; fresh herbs make a huge difference.
3. Chill before serving – Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes deepens the flavor and enhances the texture.
4. Adjust creaminess – For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or skip the mayo.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Cucumber Salad alongside:
Grilled chicken or salmon for a light, protein-packed meal.
BBQ ribs or burgers for a hearty summer cookout.
Roasted potatoes or corn on the cob for a comforting, homestyle pairing.
Or simply enjoy it chilled on its own as a refreshing snack!
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Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is proof that the simplest recipes often bring the greatest joy. With its crisp, cool cucumbers, tangy-smooth dressing, and fresh herbs, it’s a refreshing side dish that never goes out of style.
Quick to make, easy to love, and guaranteed to impress — this is the salad your summer table has been waiting for.
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