Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cucumber Salad is incredibly simple yet packs a punch of flavor. With its creamy dressing made from sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh dill, and a hint of vinegar, it brings together the perfect balance of richness and tang. The cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch while the red onions add just the right amount of bite. This dish is light, refreshing, and can be made in no time—ideal for those hot summer days when you need something quick and tasty.

Ingredients

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

• 1 to 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced (approximately ⅛ inch thick)

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped dill, kosher salt, black pepper, and vinegar.

2. Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. If you have a mandoline, use it to make slicing faster and more uniform.

3. Place the sliced cucumber and red onion in a medium serving bowl and toss with the dressing until evenly coated.

4. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Refrigerate the salad for up to 3 days or serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Refrigeration: Up to 3 days (for best freshness, serve right away or within a few hours)

Variations

• Creamy alternatives: Swap out sour cream or Greek yogurt for buttermilk or even mayo for a different creamy texture.

• Add some crunch: Toss in a handful of toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts for added texture.

• Herb variations: Try adding other herbs like parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to give the salad a bit of heat.

• Add more vegetables: Consider adding cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced bell peppers to the mix for a more colorful and vegetable-packed salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will release some water as they sit, but this doesn’t affect the taste. Just give the salad a good stir before serving.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and is not suited for reheating.

FAQs

How long can I store cucumber salad?

You can store cucumber salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it's best enjoyed within a few hours of making it.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can easily substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. It will give the salad a slightly tangier flavor and a thicker texture.

What type of cucumber is best for this salad?

English cucumbers are ideal for this salad due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. However, regular cucumbers can also be used if you peel and deseed them.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

While fresh dill gives the salad a vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried dill. Use about one teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill.

Is this cucumber salad gluten-free?

Yes, this cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I add garlic to this salad?

Yes, garlic can be a delicious addition to the dressing. Add one clove of minced garlic to the dressing for a savory boost.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, simply substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

Can I freeze this cucumber salad?

Cucumber salad doesn’t freeze well, as cucumbers lose their texture once thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

How do I keep the cucumbers from becoming soggy?

To prevent cucumbers from getting too watery, you can sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes before draining any excess liquid. This step helps maintain their crisp texture.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Salad is the ultimate easy, refreshing side dish for any occasion. Its creamy, tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the crisp cucumbers and onions, making it a go-to recipe for summer meals. With its simple ingredients and quick prep time, it’s a no-fuss dish that will quickly become a favorite at your table. Whether served immediately or stored for later, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Cucumber Salad

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This light and refreshing Cucumber Salad combines cool, crunchy cucumbers with a creamy, tangy dressing, making it the perfect summer side dish.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side dish
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 to 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced (approximately ⅛ inch thick)

½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon vinegar

½ red onion, thinly sliced

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped dill, kosher salt, black pepper, and vinegar.
2. Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Use a mandoline for faster and more uniform slicing.
3. Place the sliced cucumber and red onion in a medium serving bowl and toss with the dressing until evenly coated.
4. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Refrigerate the salad for up to 3 days or serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Notes

• For a different creamy texture, swap sour cream or Greek yogurt for buttermilk or mayo.
• For added crunch, toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts.
• Try adding herbs like parsley or chives for a unique flavor profile.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• For a more colorful salad, consider adding cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced bell peppers.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg