If you’re searching for a refreshing, vibrant side dish that feels like a cool summer breeze on your plate, this Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is absolutely your new best friend. It perfectly balances crisp cucumbers with the tang of a luscious, herb-infused dressing that simply sings with fresh dill and a subtle hint of garlic. Whether you’re craving something light yet indulgent or need a crowd-pleasing accompaniment for your barbecue, this salad brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make this creamy cucumber dill salad your go-to for every picnic, potluck, and weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the naturally cool crunch of cucumbers to the creamy richness of sour cream and mayo, all brightened by the zesty vinegar and fresh dill. These ingredients come together seamlessly, giving the salad its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 2 large cucumbers: Thinly sliced to provide a crisp and refreshing base that’s full of natural moisture.
- 1/2 small red onion: Adds a sharp and slightly sweet contrast, sliced thin enough to blend smoothly with the cucumbers.
- 1 cup sour cream: Delivers creamy richness and tang; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier twist.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Boosts the creaminess and helps bind the dressing for a silky texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill: The herbaceous heart of the salad, bringing a fresh, bright note that pairs beautifully with cucumber.
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar: Adds a subtle acidic zing that lifts the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle savory depth that’s comforting without being too sharp.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all those fresh flavors, adjusted to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right hint of warmth to balance the coolness of the cucumbers.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): A tiny touch of sweetness to round everything out and soften any acidity.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing your cucumbers and slicing them thinly; leaving the skin on adds an appealing pop of green and extra texture, but peeling is great if you prefer a milder taste. Thinly slice the red onion as well to complement the cucumbers perfectly. This prep work sets the foundation for your salad’s crisp, fresh bite.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter spin), mayonnaise, fresh dill, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar if you’re using it. Stir until everything is smooth and beautifully blended. This luscious dressing is what turns simple veggies into a culinary delight.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Transfer the cucumbers and red onions into a large mixing bowl. Pour that dreamy creamy dressing over the top and gently toss everything together so every crunchy slice is coated in herb-infused goodness. This step ensures each bite bursts with flavor and the perfect balance of creamy and crisp.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For the best results, cover the salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time really allows all the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a harmonious and refreshing taste experience. Of course, if you’re in a hurry, you can serve it right away, but waiting is definitely worth it.
Step 5: Garnish (Optional)
Just before serving, you can sprinkle on a little extra fresh dill or add a few cucumber slices as garnish. This final touch not only makes your salad look even more inviting but also amps up the fresh dill aroma and gives an elegant pop of green.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill works wonders as a garnish, enhancing the herbal brightness of the salad. You might also try adding finely chopped chives or thin radish slices for a bit of color contrast and a peppery bite. These tiny touches turn your dish into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Side Dishes
This creamy cucumber dill salad makes the perfect companion to grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It also pairs brilliantly with hearty sandwiches, or as a refreshing contrast to spicy dishes. Its cool, crisp texture cuts through heavier foods, making your meal feel light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out cucumber boats or small mason jars for individual portions at your next gathering. Alternatively, layering it over a bed of fresh greens or dolloping it alongside roasted potatoes adds visual interest and elevates your table presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be tough), transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 2 days, although the cucumbers might release a bit of moisture. Give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well. The high water content in cucumbers causes them to become soft and watery after thawing, which affects the texture and taste of the salad, so freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
Since this dish is served cold, reheating is not necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge, give it a quick stir, and serve chilled for maximum freshness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Absolutely! Dried dill works well if fresh isn’t available. Use about one-third of the amount of fresh dill called for; in this recipe, that’s about 1 teaspoon of dried dill. It will still provide that signature flavor, though fresh dill offers a brighter, more vibrant taste.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a lighter creaminess with a bit more tang. It will make the dressing a little thicker and healthier, while still keeping that rich, creamy texture you want in this salad.
How long can I prepare this salad before serving?
This salad can be made up to a few hours in advance, and chilling it definitely improves the flavor. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving. Avoid making it too far ahead, as the cucumbers might start to release water, diluting the dressing.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to toss in sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even thinly sliced bell peppers for added crunch and color. These additions can add new flavor dimensions while keeping the salad fresh and exciting.
What’s the best way to thinly slice cucumbers?
The easiest way is to use a mandoline slicer for even, paper-thin slices. If you don’t have one, a very sharp knife will do the trick—just take your time to slice evenly so the salad has a nice uniform texture.
Final Thoughts
You haven’t truly experienced a fresh, light, and creamy salad until you’ve tried this Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe. It’s effortless to whip up, bursting with flavor, and ideal for so many occasions. Once you make it, I’m pretty sure it will become a staple in your recipe rotation — so go ahead and dive in, your taste buds are in for a joyful ride!
Print
Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy cucumber dill salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish perfect for warm days. Featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion tossed in a luscious sour cream and mayonnaise-based dressing infused with fresh dill, garlic powder, and a touch of vinegar, it offers a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and herby flavors. Whether served immediately or chilled to enhance the flavors, this salad is an easy, delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly. You can choose to peel the cucumbers or leave the skins on for additional texture. Thinly slice the red onion as well to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh dill, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a creamy and flavorful dressing.
- Combine the Salad: Transfer the sliced cucumbers and red onion into a large bowl. Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together gently but thoroughly to coat the slices evenly with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. Although it can be served right away, chilling greatly enhances the taste and texture, making the salad more refreshing.
- Garnish (optional): Just before serving, garnish the salad with a little more fresh dill or add a few cucumber slices on top for a fresh and appealing presentation that enhances visual appeal and flavor.
Notes
- Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream cuts down on fat and makes the salad lighter.
- Adjust salt and sugar to taste depending on your preference and the sweetness of cucumbers.
- For a crisper salad, salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid before mixing with the dressing.
- This salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add extra flavor and color.
