easy creamy cucumber salad

This cool and creamy cucumber salad is a lifesaver on sweltering days and never fails to disappear at family cookouts. It comes together in a flash and feels super refreshing after a long day in the sun.

I first made this on a triple digit July evening and it was such a hit my neighbors now ask for the recipe. It is simple fresh and surprisingly addictive.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: fully peeled for a delicate texture and cooling bite try to choose firm unblemished cucumbers for the best crunch
• Onion: you can use red or yellow depending on preference red adds a bit of color yellow is a touch milder look for onions that feel heavy for their size
• Light sour cream: keeps the dressing creamy but lighter choose a brand with no gums or fillers if possible
• White distilled vinegar: creates tang and contrast a clean sharp vinegar makes all the difference
• Sugar: balances the tang and enhances flavors plain white sugar works best in this recipe
• Fresh dill: for that classic cucumber salad taste and freshness use feathery fronds from a fresh bunch and avoid older woody stems

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Cucumbers:

Slice peeled cucumbers into even rounds using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Aim for consistently thin slices which helps the salad absorb more flavor.

Chop the Onion:

Finely dice the onion to ensure it blends well into every bite. Smaller onion pieces add flavor without overpowering the salad.

Make the Dressing:

In a separate mixing bowl whisk together the light sour cream white vinegar sugar and chopped fresh dill. Stir thoroughly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

Combine Salad and Dressing:

Add sliced cucumbers and chopped onion to a large bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Chill the Salad:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour so the flavors meld and the salad gets crisp and cold perfect for serving.

Save

I always look forward to stirring in the fresh dill which reminds me of picking bunches from my childhood garden. This salad is a staple at our summer gatherings and disappeared fast at my last birthday cookout.

Storage Tips

Store this creamy cucumber salad in the refrigerator covered or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and crisp for up to two days. Give it a good stir before serving as the dressing can separate slightly and vegetables will release a bit of liquid over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can stand in for light sour cream if you want even more tang or extra protein. If you do not have fresh dill a sprinkling of dried dill works in a pinch but the fresh really is worth it. Apple cider vinegar gives a slightly sweeter and softer punch if white vinegar is too sharp for your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is made for barbecues and picnics. Pile it next to grilled chicken burgers or even spicy sausages. I also love eating it for a light lunch with rye crackers and cold smoked salmon.

Cultural Note

Creamy cucumber salads are classic throughout central and eastern Europe with many families passing down their own twists. The combination of cool cucumbers fresh dill and tangy sour cream has been served at my table since I was a kid and always signals that summer is officially here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of onion works best in this salad?

Both red and yellow onions add flavor, but red onion brings a milder, sweeter crunch and vibrant color.

→ Can I substitute the sour cream?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used for a similar creamy texture and tangy taste.

→ How long should the salad chill before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend and cucumbers to absorb the dressing.

→ Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?

Peeled cucumbers yield a tender salad, but leaving the skin on adds color and crunch if preferred.

→ Can fresh herbs other than dill be used?

Yes, parsley or chives may be added for variation, though dill gives the classic flavor profile.