This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or sandwiches. Crisp cucumbers and sweet onions are tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar, creating a deliciously simple salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Cucumbers
- 1 medium Sweet Onion
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup White Sugar
- 1/4 cup White Vinegar
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Cucumbers and Onion
- Peel and Slice Cucumbers: Peel the cucumbers if desired, then slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice Onion: Peel the sweet onion and slice it thinly. Add the sliced onion to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Step 2: Make Creamy Dressing
- Mix Dressing: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, and white vinegar until smooth and well combined.
- Season: Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the creamy dressing over the sliced cucumbers and onion in the large mixing bowl.
- Toss: Gently toss the salad until the cucumbers and onion are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Cold: Once chilled, give the salad a final toss before serving.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the salad with additional freshly ground black pepper or chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for added flavor and freshness.
- Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Cucumber Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a summer picnic spread.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Thinly Slice Cucumbers: For the best texture and presentation, slice the cucumbers thinly. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the salad by adding chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the salad before serving.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a classic side dish that’s both simple and delicious. With its crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and creamy dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, picnic, or potluck, this refreshing salad is the perfect addition to your menu. Enjoy the cool and creamy flavors of this easy-to-make salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter dressing. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and creaminess to the salad while reducing the overall calorie and fat content.
Q: How long will the Creamy Cucumber Salad last in the refrigerator?
A: This salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for extra color and crunch.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of this salad by using a vegan mayonnaise substitute or homemade vegan mayo. Simply follow the recipe as directed, substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative.
