Name: Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 11 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cups cucumbers; ½ cup red onion; ¼ cup fresh dill; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; 1 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp sugar

This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. With its crisp cucumbers and tangy sour cream dressing, it's a delightful addition to your meal. The fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, making it an irresistible side dish.

Photos of Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you're not familiar with dill, it is a fresh herb that brings a unique aromatic flavor to this salad. You can usually find it in the produce section of your supermarket. Make sure to pick up fresh red onion and sour cream if you don't usually keep these items on hand.

Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Cucumbers: The main ingredient, providing a refreshing crunch.

Red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and a bit of color.

Fresh dill: Contributes a distinctive, aromatic taste.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and balances the flavors.

Sour cream: Creates a creamy, tangy dressing for the salad.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.

One reader, Jeddy Maxwell says:

This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing delight! The blend of crisp cucumbers, tangy sour cream, and fresh dill creates a perfect balance. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. A must-try for any summer meal!

Jeddy Maxwell

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Cucumber Salad

How to slice cucumbers: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the cucumbers evenly, ensuring they are thin enough for the salad. How to chop red onion: Peel the onion, then slice it thinly or chop it finely, depending on your preference for texture in the salad. How to chop fresh dill: Wash the dill, remove the stems, and finely chop the leaves to release their flavor. How to mix dressing: Combine the salt, pepper, sour cream, and sugar in a small bowl, whisking until smooth and well-blended. How to toss salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and use salad tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until evenly coated.

How To Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Enjoy a creamy, sour-like batch of cucumber salad with your next meal! It’s a refreshing palette cleanser, and can also be enjoyed on its own.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 minute

Total: 11 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5cupscucumbers,sliced, peeled and seeds removed
½cupred onion
¼cupfresh dill,chopped
1tspsalt
½tsppepper
1cupsour cream
1tbspsugar

Instructions

Place the cucumbers, red onion and dill in a large bowl.
In small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, sour cream and sugar.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture, then toss to coat evenly.
Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 101.15kcal
Fat: 7.68g
Saturated Fat: 4.45g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.35g
Carbohydrates: 7.76g
Fiber: 0.73g
Sugar: 5.20g
Protein: 1.54g
Cholesterol: 19.93mg
Sodium: 327.96mg
Calcium: 61.15mg
Potassium: 206.97mg
Iron: 0.39mg
Vitamin A: 73.30µg
Vitamin C: 4.07mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Creamy Cucumber Salad

For an extra burst of flavor, lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for about 15 minutes before combining with the other ingredients. This will draw out excess moisture, making the salad less watery and more flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad

Pre-slice the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use a mandoline: A mandoline slicer can quickly and uniformly slice the cucumbers and red onions.

Pre-mix the dressing: Mix the sour cream, salt, pepper, and sugar ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Chop dill in bulk: Chop a large batch of fresh dill and freeze it in small portions for future use.

Use a large mixing bowl: A large bowl makes it easier to toss the salad evenly and quickly.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

cucumbers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative in salads.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder taste and a hint of sweetness, which can complement the creamy dressing well.
fresh dill - Substitute with dried dill: Dried dill can be used in place of fresh dill, though you should use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness with a slightly different mineral profile.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't add black specks to the creamy dressing.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture with a tangy flavor and is often lower in fat.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, which pairs well with the other ingredients.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Creamy Cucumber Salad

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill are of the highest quality and freshness to enhance the overall flavor and presentation.
Slice cucumbers uniformly: Use a mandoline slicer to create thin, even slices of cucumbers for a visually appealing and consistent texture.
Create a visually appealing bowl: Choose a large, elegant bowl to mix the cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill together, ensuring the colors and textures are well-distributed.
Prepare the dressing with finesse: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, sour cream, and sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring the dressing is well-emulsified.
Dress the salad elegantly: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly, making sure not to bruise the delicate ingredients.
Plate with precision: Serve the salad in individual, chilled plates or bowls, arranging the cucumber slices in a circular pattern for a refined look.
Garnish with fresh dill: Add a sprig of fresh dill on top of each serving for a touch of elegance and a burst of color.
Serve immediately: Ensure the salad is served immediately to maintain its crispness and freshness, allowing the flavors to shine through.
Pair with complementary dishes: Consider pairing the creamy cucumber salad with light, refreshing dishes such as grilled fish or a citrusy chicken dish to create a balanced meal.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Cucumber Salad

Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely slice the cucumbers and red onion.
Chef's knife: Essential for finely slicing the cucumbers and red onion.
Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the cucumbers, red onion, and dill.
Small mixing bowl: Ideal for mixing the salt, pepper, sour cream, and sugar to create the dressing.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the cucumbers, sour cream, and fresh dill.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, pepper, and sugar precisely.
Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix the dressing ingredients together.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the dressing out of the small bowl and into the large bowl.
Tongs: Handy for tossing the cucumber mixture with the dressing to ensure even coating.
Serving bowl: A nice bowl to present the creamy cucumber salad for serving.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Creamy Cucumber Salad

This creamy cucumber salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep in mind that the longer the salad sits, the more watery it will become as the cucumbers release their liquid. If you want to prevent this, you can store the cucumber mixture and the dressing separately and combine them just before serving.
If you want to make this salad ahead of time, prepare the cucumbers, red onion, and dill and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Mix the dressing ingredients separately and store them in another airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, combine the two and toss well.
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of the cucumbers. Freezing will cause the cucumbers to become mushy and lose their crunchy texture once thawed.
If you have a lot of cucumbers on hand and want to preserve them for later use, consider pickling them instead of freezing. Pickled cucumbers will last for several weeks in the refrigerator and maintain their crunchy texture.

Interesting Trivia About Creamy Cucumber Salad

A random fact about this creamy cucumber salad recipe is that dill is not only a flavorful herb but also has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.

Is Making Creamy Cucumber Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy cucumber salad is quite cost-effective for a household. With cucumbers and red onions being relatively inexpensive, and sour cream and fresh dill adding a touch of luxury without breaking the bank, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavor and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $6-$8. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Creamy Cucumber Salad Healthy?

The creamy cucumber salad recipe is a refreshing and light dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to some of its ingredients. Here's an analysis of the recipe:

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great choice for a healthy diet. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K and potassium.
Red onions are a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
Fresh dill is an excellent source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
However, the dressing, which consists of sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper, is where the recipe falls short in terms of healthiness. Sour cream is high in saturated fat and calories, while sugar adds empty calories to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein. Greek yogurt also contains probiotics that promote gut health.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Add more vegetables to the salad, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or carrots, to increase the nutrient content and fiber.
Use less salt in the dressing and let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through.
Consider adding a source of lean protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make the salad more filling and balanced.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

This creamy cucumber salad recipe is a refreshing and simple dish, perfect for a summer side. The combination of crisp cucumbers, tangy red onion, and fragrant dill creates a delightful base. The dressing, with its balance of sour cream and a hint of sweetness from the sugar, complements the vegetables beautifully. However, consider letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This will enhance the overall taste and texture, making it even more enjoyable.

Enhance Your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: The zesty and aromatic flavors of lemon and herbs perfectly complement the creamy texture of the cucumber salad. The charred, juicy chicken adds a delightful contrast, making each bite a harmonious blend of freshness and savory goodness.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These crispy, golden potatoes with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan create a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy cucumber salad. The rich, earthy flavors of the potatoes enhance the overall dining experience.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a touch of honey provide a delightful sweetness that balances the tangy and creamy notes of the cucumber salad. The vibrant colors and flavors make this a visually appealing and delicious addition to your meal.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed quinoa and black bean salad, with its mix of fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing, offers a hearty and nutritious side that complements the light and refreshing cucumber salad. The contrasting textures and flavors create a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Creamy Cucumber Salad

Greek Tzatziki Sauce: Dive into the refreshing world of Greek cuisine with this creamy and tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect as a dip for vegetables or a spread on your favorite sandwiches, this versatile sauce will elevate any meal.

German Potato Salad: Experience the hearty flavors of Germany with this warm and savory potato salad. With a delightful mix of bacon, vinegar, and mustard, this dish is a perfect side for any barbecue or picnic.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Take your taste buds on a journey to Asia with this crisp and refreshing cucumber salad. Infused with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of rice vinegar, it's a light and flavorful addition to any meal.

Caprese Salad: Indulge in the simple yet elegant flavors of Italy with this classic Caprese salad. Featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze, it's a feast for the senses.

Coleslaw: Add a crunchy and creamy side to your meals with this classic coleslaw. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots, and dressed in a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar mixture, it's a perfect companion for grilled meats and sandwiches.

Why trust this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe:

This creamy cucumber salad recipe is a must-try because it combines fresh, crisp cucumbers with the tangy richness of sour cream. The addition of red onion and fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, while a touch of sugar balances the dish perfectly. It's a quick and easy recipe that delivers a refreshing and satisfying side dish, perfect for any meal. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to create a delightful salad that will impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

How do I keep the cucumbers from getting too watery?

I like to slice the cucumbers and then sprinkle them with a bit of salt. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes, then drain any excess water before mixing them with the other ingredients. This helps keep the salad from getting too watery.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you want a lighter option. It will still give you that creamy texture and tangy flavor.

How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Sure thing! Feel free to add veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some radishes for extra crunch and color.

What can I serve with this creamy cucumber salad?

This salad pairs really well with grilled meats, especially chicken or fish. It's also a great side dish for a summer BBQ or picnic.