In the summer months, a light, creamy cucumber salad takes on a special allure. You can visualize sunny afternoons, laughter drifting from your backyard, and the tantalizing aromas of grilled foods wafting through the air.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
Servings 8
Calories 61kcal
Ingredients
⅓ cup finely sliced sweet white onion
2seedlessEnglish cucumbers, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Herb Dressing
3tablespoonsrich mayonnaise
½teaspoongarlic powder
Salt, to taste
¼cupfreshly chopped dill leaves
3tablespoonsdistilled white vinegar
½cupsour cream or plain Greek-style yogurt
1teaspoonlemon zest
½teaspoonfine sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions
Start by washing the cucumbers. Peel if desired, then slice them thinly. I’ve found that English cucumbers have a pleasantly mild flavor and a crisp texture. Slice your sweet white onion finely; this will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the salad.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option).
Whisk until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the vinegar while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Add the lemon zest and sugar. Taste and adjust salt as needed. The dressing should balance creamy and tangy.
Step 3: Combine it All
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Pour the dressing over the top. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients uniformly. You want every piece of cucumber to glisten with that savory blend.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing.
Notes
Here are some tips to elevate your creamy cucumber salad:
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill makes a significant difference in flavor. If you can, please use fresh instead of dried.
Add Crunch: Consider diced bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color.
Personalize: Don’t hesitate to include your favorite ingredients, whether it’s olives, capers, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Texture Matters: Aim for consistent slicing. This helps the salad look appealing and makes for an enjoyable eating experience.
Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Just remember to stir before serving, as some liquid may accumulate at the bottom.