If you are looking for a refreshing, simple, and utterly delicious side dish to brighten up your meal, this Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Crisp cucumbers and a hint of sharp red onion are enveloped in a luscious, tangy dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh dill, striking the perfect balance between cool freshness and creamy richness. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, seeking a healthy snack, or just craving something light and satisfying, this salad is effortless to make and incredibly satisfying to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds a crucial note — the cucumbers lend crispness and hydration, the red onion adds a subtle zing, and the creamy dressing brings it all together with a smooth, tangy finish. Every element is straightforward yet essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- 2 large cucumbers: Thinly sliced for that refreshing crunch that’s the heart of the salad.
- ½ small red onion: Thinly sliced to add a mild, slightly sweet bite without overpowering.
- ½ cup sour cream: The creamy base that adds richness and a delightful tang.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Enhances the creaminess and lends a subtle smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the creaminess perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill): Infuses the salad with that classic fresh, herby aroma and flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory kick that deepens the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of all the fresh ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough warmth to round things out beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion so they blend beautifully in the salad. For extra crispness, you can lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes, then pat them dry before mixing. This removes excess moisture and helps keep the salad crisp.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar or lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is perfectly smooth and well-combined. This luscious dressing is what transforms the salad into something creamy and utterly crave-worthy.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions, then gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is key for the flavors to meld harmoniously and to let the salad chill to that perfectly refreshing temperature.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra fresh dill or finely chopped chives on top just before serving for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. A few cracked black peppercorns or a light drizzle of olive oil can also add an elegant touch and deepen the flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy burger. Its cool creaminess perfectly complements smoky or spicy main dishes and is also a fantastic light side for picnics and potlucks.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in a hollowed-out cucumber boat for a fun presentation at parties or layering it in individual glass jars for picnic-perfect portions. You can also use it as a crisp topping for open-faced sandwiches or wraps to add a burst of refreshing flavor and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to keep the cucumbers crisp and the flavors lively.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh cucumbers and creamy dressing, which can separate and become watery. It’s best to prepare only what you plan to eat within a couple of days.
Reheating
Since this is a refreshing cold salad, it is not meant to be reheated. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for the best taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds a tangy flavor while reducing fat content. Just keep in mind it might be slightly less rich than sour cream, but it still works wonderfully.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld perfectly and gives the cucumbers time to soak up the dressing without getting soggy.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to add sliced radishes, fresh chives, or even dill seeds for an extra dimension of flavor. However, for the classic taste, keep the ingredients simple.
Is this recipe gluten-free and low carb?
Yes, this Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect side for various dietary preferences.
What’s the best way to slice the cucumbers for this salad?
Thinly slicing the cucumbers ensures they absorb the dressing better and provide a crisp texture that’s easy to enjoy with every bite.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully satisfying about the simple yet vibrant flavors in this Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe. It’s a quick, no-cook dish that refreshes the palate and adds brightness to any meal. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become a staple in your routine, perfect for warm days or whenever you want an easy, healthy treat. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and creamy cucumber dill salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions tossed in a tangy, herbaceous dressing made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh dill. Perfect as a cool summer side dish or light accompaniment, this no-cook salad is easy to prepare and bursting with bright flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution for the salad base.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar or lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Gently toss the ingredients together until all slices are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience.
Notes
- For extra-crisp cucumbers, lightly salt the slices and let them sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes before rinsing and patting dry.
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day to maintain freshness but can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
