Creamy Cucumber Salad
A refreshing, classic creamy cucumber salad just like Grandma made! This easy side dish features crisp cucumbers and red onions in a tangy-sweet dressing with fresh dill. Perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, and family gatherings.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- colander
- sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 3-4 large cucumbers about 2 pounds, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt for salting cucumbers
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds (1/8 inch thick). Place in a large colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat and let drain for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Onion: While cucumbers drain, slice red onion into thin half-moons.
- Rinse and Dry: After salting time, rinse cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat completely dry with paper towels or clean kitchen towel.
- Make Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine: Add dried cucumbers and sliced onions to the dressing. Gently fold together until vegetables are evenly coated.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh dill over the top and give one final gentle stir.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Give a final stir before serving. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Preventing Watery Salad: The salting step is crucial - it draws out excess moisture from cucumbers that would otherwise dilute the dressing. Don't skip the rinsing and drying steps.
Cucumber Types: English or Persian cucumbers work best due to fewer seeds and thinner skin. Regular slicing cucumbers work too but may need peeling if skin is tough.
Make-Ahead Tips: Can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Best texture within first 4-6 hours. Drain excess liquid before serving leftovers.
Substitutions:
- Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt for lighter version or mayonnaise for richer flavor
- White vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Fresh dill can be replaced with dried dill (use 1 teaspoon) or fresh herbs like mint or parsley
- Sugar can be reduced or omitted for less sweet version
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Amount per Serving
Calories
45
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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