Creamy Cucumber Salad is a classic, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light and flavorful side to any meal. This recipe combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with the tangy creaminess of a simple dressing, enhanced by the subtle sweetness of red onion and the delicate flavor of dill. It’s a dish that the whole family will love, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by slicing the cucumbers and red onion. For the best texture, use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible. Thin slices allow the cucumbers to soak up the dressing more effectively, making each bite more flavorful. Similarly, slice the red onion thinly to ensure it blends well with the cucumbers.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, and dried dill weed. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well combined. The sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the vinegar, while the dill imparts a fresh, herbaceous note.
3. Combine the Salad
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the cucumber slices to remain intact and crisp.
4. Season and Chill
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. The salt will help enhance the natural flavors of the cucumbers and onions, while the pepper adds a subtle spice. For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the cucumbers to absorb the flavors of the dressing and the salad to become even more refreshing.
5. Serve the Salad
Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Creamy Cucumber Salad cold, garnished with a sprinkle of extra dill or freshly cracked pepper if desired. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a larger spread of salads and sides.
Cooking Tips:
- Choosing the Cucumbers: English cucumbers are preferred for this recipe because they have thinner skin and fewer seeds compared to regular cucumbers. If you’re using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them and removing the seeds for a similar texture.
- Red Onion Alternatives: If red onion is too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with a milder onion variety like sweet onion or use thinly sliced green onions for a more delicate flavor.
- Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a tangier salad, increase the amount of vinegar slightly. For a richer dressing, you can add a little extra mayonnaise.
Why This Recipe Is a Hit:
Creamy Cucumber Salad is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of cool, crisp cucumbers and creamy dressing is both satisfying and refreshing, making it an ideal dish for warm weather. The red onion adds a bit of bite, while the dill brings a fragrant herbiness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
This salad is also a great make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious when prepared a few hours in advance. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a summer barbecue or as a light addition to a weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Variations:
- Greek-Style Cucumber Salad: Add crumbled feta cheese and sliced black olives to the salad for a Mediterranean twist. You can also swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- Herb-Infused Dressing: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or mint to the dressing. These herbs will add a fresh, vibrant note to the salad.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy variation.
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. Its refreshing and creamy flavor profile makes it the perfect side dish for any occasion, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for the family, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the crisp, creamy goodness of Creamy Cucumber Salad and savor every bite!
