Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and delicious side dish perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light and healthy snack. This dish combines crisp cucumbers with a rich and tangy dressing made from sour cream, yogurt, or mayonnaise, enhanced with herbs and seasonings for an irresistible flavor. The cool and creamy texture balances well with the slight crunch of cucumbers, making it an excellent complement to grilled meats or other hearty dishes.
The best part about this salad is its versatility. You can add onions, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or even a bit of garlic to elevate the taste. The dressing can be adjusted to your preference—whether you like it tangy with a hint of vinegar or creamy with a touch of sweetness. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English cucumbers or regular)
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice for a fresher taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small garlic clove (minced, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them if the skin is thick or waxed. English cucumbers can be left unpeeled for added color and texture.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly using a knife or a mandoline for even slices. If the cucumbers have a lot of seeds, you can scoop them out before slicing.
- Place the cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle a little salt over them, and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps to draw out excess water, preventing the salad from becoming watery. After 15 minutes, pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise (if using), white vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more vinegar; if you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the drained cucumber slices and thinly sliced red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all the slices evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the salad and mix lightly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Serving and Nutrition Information
- Serves: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~120-150 calories (depending on ingredients used)
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Protein: ~2g
- Fats: ~10g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~3g
Tips and Variations
- Make it Lighter: Use only Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise for a healthier, lower-fat version.
- Extra Crunch: Add sliced radishes or bell peppers for a bit of extra texture and color.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream instead of sour cream/mayo.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give it some heat.
- Herb Variations: Substitute dill with fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a quick, easy, and delightful dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a simple, refreshing snack, this salad is sure to please with its crisp texture and creamy, tangy dressing. Try it out and customize it to your taste for the perfect side dish!