Creamy Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy cucumber salad is the perfect side dish to complement any meal. It’s refreshing, light, and incredibly easy to make. With its smooth, tangy dressing and crisp cucumbers, it’s a dish that balances flavor and texture beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a light lunch, or just craving something cool and crunchy, this salad is a great choice. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can customize it to your taste with various herbs or additional vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by peeling and slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds. If you prefer, you can also slice them into half moons or dice them.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Add the chopped dill, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir again to incorporate the herbs and seasoning.

4. Toss the sliced cucumbers into the creamy dressing mixture. Gently stir to ensure all the cucumber slices are well coated with the dressing.

5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add red onion: Thinly slice a red onion and toss it in with the cucumbers for a slightly sharp flavor.

• Add Greek yogurt: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and a healthier twist.

• Add garlic: Incorporate minced garlic into the dressing for an extra depth of flavor.

• Spicy option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the salad a bit of heat.

• Lemon twist: Substitute lemon juice for the white vinegar to give the salad a fresh citrusy taste.

Storage/Reheating

This creamy cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors may even improve after sitting for a while. However, it’s best to consume it fresh as cucumbers can release water, which may cause the salad to become a bit soggy. There's no need to reheat this dish as it’s meant to be served cold.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

2. Can I use a different herb instead of dill?

Yes, you can use other herbs like mint, basil, or thyme, depending on your taste preferences. Fresh parsley also works well.

3. Can I use low-fat sour cream or mayonnaise?

Absolutely! You can use low-fat or light versions of sour cream and mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter version of the salad.

4. How do I keep the cucumbers from getting watery?

To avoid excess water from the cucumbers, you can salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing them and patting them dry. This draws out moisture.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or radishes to customize the salad to your liking.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this creamy cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

To make the salad dairy-free, substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or vegan mayonnaise.

8. How long will the salad keep in the fridge?

The salad will last in the fridge for about 2-3 days. However, the cucumbers may start to release water over time, so it's best to eat it sooner for the best texture.

9. Can I use pre-sliced cucumbers?

You can use pre-sliced cucumbers for convenience, but freshly sliced cucumbers tend to hold up better and maintain their crisp texture in the salad.

10. Can I add nuts or seeds for crunch?

Yes, adding toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even slivered almonds can enhance the texture and give the salad an extra crunch.

Conclusion

Creamy cucumber salad is the ultimate cool, crisp side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Its simple yet delicious flavor is sure to satisfy, and with the ability to customize it with different herbs, vegetables, and seasonings, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to. Whether you serve it at a summer barbecue or as a refreshing lunch, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser

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