Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Okay, this creamy cucumber salad recipe is my go-to because it’s like diving into a refreshing, tangy oasis that perfectly complements any summer meal. Plus, the burst of dill with the cool crunch of cucumbers makes it feel like a little gourmet adventure in every bite!

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is so refreshing, made with very thinly cut cucumbers and a lovely dressing of sour cream and white vinegar. The only things that could make it better are the addition of fresh dill (you could also use dried), garlic powder, and onion powder, and a very slight hint of black pepper.

Really, those are just the flavors of excellent creamy cucumber salad.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water, they are hydrating and refreshing.
• Sour cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess, rich in fat and calcium, enhancing texture.
• White vinegar: Provides acidity, balancing flavors while being low in calories.
• Fresh dill: Offers a burst of flavor with antioxidants, enhancing taste without calories.
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and potential immune-boosting properties.
• Red onion: Optional, for a hint of sharpness and added fiber and antioxidants.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

How to Make this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

1. In a big mixing bowl, blend the sour cream, white vinegar, chopped dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Until that point, nothing much is happening. It’s a pretty uneventful mixing bowl, just a smooth, sour-cream-laden mixture, the kind of mixture you’d ensconce yourself in for a spa day. Then, as if by magic, bring the spa day mixture to a boil and:

2. If desired, the cucumbers can be peeled. They should then be sliced thinly using either a mandoline or a sharp knife. The dressing should be in a bowl that will later hold the salad. Add sliced cucumbers.

3. If red onion is being used, it should be thinly sliced and added to the bowl with the cucumbers and dressing.

4. Carefully mix the cucumbers and onion in the dressing, ensuring that all components are uniformly coated.

5. Place plastic wrap or a lid over the bowl, and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.

6. Once cooled, stir the salad quickly to distribute the dressing.

7. If needed, taste and adjust the seasoning. You can add more salt or black pepper to suit your preference.

8. The creamy cucumber salad should be served chilled. It makes a refreshing side dish.

9. If you want extra freshness and color, you can garnish with additional chopped dill.

10. For optimal freshness, refrigerate any leftover salad. You can store it there for up to 2 days.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl
2. Spoon (for mixing)
3. Cutting board
4. Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing cucumbers and onion)
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Plastic wrap or bowl lid
7. Refrigerator

FAQ

• Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?Indeed, Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative to sour cream, presenting a comparable creamy consistency and a hint of tangy flavor.
• How should I prepare the cucumbers before slicing?If the cucumbers have a thick skin, it’s best to peel them, but this is optional. For a smoother texture, remove the seeds if you like.
• Can this salad be made ahead of time?You can prepare it several hours before, but try to serve it the same day you make it to keep the cucumber from getting too soggy.
• Is fresh dill necessary, or can I use dried dill?The preferred dill for its vibrant flavor is fresh, but in a pinch, you could use dried dill; use about one-third of the amount.
• What can I serve with creamy cucumber salad?This salad makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled beef, fish, or as a refreshing side dish at a BBQ.
• How do I store any leftover salad?Keep unused portions in a sealed container in the fridge for no longer than two days.
• What is the purpose of adding vinegar to the salad?A creamy dressing that is perfectly balanced with the flavors requires some kind of acidic ingredient to really shine. Enter the vinegar.

  Vinegars of all types—and we’re not just talking about your basic white distilled vinegar here—are glorious flavor boosters. They are made in endless varieties, from equally countless types of base ingredients, across a wide range of countries and cultures.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Sour cream: Replace with Greek yogurt for a creamy yet zesty alternative.
White vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different taste.
If fresh dill is unavailable, substitute with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Garlic powder: Substitute with fresh minced garlic to obtain a more potent garlic taste.
Red onion: You can use as a milder option thinly sliced green onions or chives.

Pro Tips

1. Salting the Cucumbers: Before adding them to the dressing, sprinkle the cucumber slices with a bit of salt and let them sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture, ensuring a crunchier salad and preventing the dressing from becoming too watery.