Why You’ll Love Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

It comes together in minutes — minimal prep, maximum reward.
The creamy dressing balances tanginess and freshness for a satisfying flavor.
It’s a great way to use up garden cucumbers.
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or stands on its own as a light side.
It keeps (with some texture change) for a few days in the fridge, making it ideal for make‑ahead meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad:

Cucumbers (preferably English or another thin‑skinned variety)
Purple onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing:

Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt as a substitute)
Mayonnaise
White vinegar
Sugar
Fresh dill (chopped)
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumbers. Thinly slice the purple onion. Combine both in a large bowl and set aside.
Make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Chill and finish. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Before serving, toss once more and garnish with extra dill and freshly ground pepper if desired.
Serve. Enjoy cold as a side dish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter, higher‑protein version.
Add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest for zesty brightness.
Swap dill with fresh basil or thyme if you don’t prefer dill.
Add slices of radish or cherry tomatoes for extra color and bite.
For more crunch, stir in a handful of thinly sliced celery or bell pepper.

Storage/Reheating

Make ahead: You can prepare this salad 1–2 days ahead and keep it chilled until serving.
Refrigeration: Store tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note: cucumbers may soften over time.
Freezing: Not recommended — freezing will ruin the crisp texture of the cucumbers.

FAQs

1. Can I omit the mayonnaise or sour cream?

You could reduce one component, but they provide creaminess and body to the dressing. Omitting both would yield a very thin, less satisfying dressing.

2. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes — use about half the amount of dried dill in place of fresh, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.

3. Will regular cucumbers work?

Yes. If the skin is thick or waxed, peel lightly before slicing to improve texture and flavor.

4. Can I serve this immediately without chilling?

Yes, you can serve right away if needed, though chilling helps the flavors blend and improves the taste.

5. Is this salad good for potlucks or picnics?

Yes, but it’s best consumed within a few hours. Keep it chilled and consider packing extra dressing in case the cucumbers release water.

6. Can I add garlic?

You can include a small amount of minced garlic to the dressing if you like garlic flavor, though it changes the profile.

7. What can I pair this salad with?

Grilled chicken, fish, roasted meats, sandwiches, or as a light side in summer meals.

8. How do I prevent it from becoming watery?

Drain off any excess liquid before serving, and avoid slicing cucumbers too thick. Chill in a sealed container to limit extra moisture.

9. Can I double or halve the recipe easily?

Yes — the recipe scales well. Maintain the proportions of dressing to vegetables.

10. Why does the salad sometimes look watery after sitting?

Cucumbers release water over time; that’s natural. Stir before serving and drain excess if needed.

Conclusion

This creamy cucumber salad is a simple yet flavorful side that celebrates cucumbers in all their refreshing glory. With minimal effort and ingredients, you get a dish that’s cool, tangy, and perfect for warm weather meals — whether as a picnic side, a complement to grilled mains, or a quick addition to your dinner table. Let it chill, toss before serving, and enjoy the crisp, creamy goodness.