This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is super refreshing and a breeze to make! With crunchy cucumbers and a smooth, tangy dressing, it’s perfect for hot days or any meal.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a good salad that feels like a little treat? I whip this up as a side and it disappears fast. It’s just that good! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: The heart of this salad! I recommend using English cucumbers as they’re less bitter and have fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too; just peel and slice them as needed.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This is what gives the salad its creamy texture. I lean towards Greek yogurt for a healthier option; it has a nice tangy flavor. If you want a dairy-free alternative, try a cashew or coconut yogurt!
White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar: Both types add a nice zing to the dressing. Apple cider vinegar has a slightly fruity note—use it if you’re looking for a hint of sweetness. Lemon juice is also a good substitute for a fresh twist.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a wonderful flavor. If it’s not available, you could use dried dill, but start with less since dried herbs are stronger. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can also brighten things up.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumbers are Crisp?
To keep your cucumbers crisp, it’s key to handle them properly. Here’s how:
- After slicing, sprinkle cucumbers with a bit of salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps draw out excess water, keeping the salad from getting soggy.
- Pat them dry before adding to the dressing. This extra step keeps your salad nice and crunchy!
Remember, chilling the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also helps keep everything nice and refreshing. Enjoy making your salad! 🥒
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and is best chilled for at least 30 minutes before serving. In total, plan for about 40 minutes, which includes prep and chill time. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Cucumbers:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. If you prefer, you can peel the cucumbers first, but the skin adds nice texture and color.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. This will create a tangy dressing that pairs beautifully with the cucumbers!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. If you’re using red onion, add it now as well. Gently toss everything together, making sure all the cucumbers are coated in the delicious dressing.
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
If you love the flavor of dill, stir in the chopped dill for an extra punch! This step is optional, but it brightens up the salad.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it extra refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste to see if it needs any more salt or pepper. Serve it chilled as a delightful side dish, and enjoy the fresh and creamy flavors! 🥒
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are great for salads due to their mild flavor and fewer seeds, you can use regular cucumbers too. Just make sure to peel them if the skin is tough, and remove any seeds if they are prominent.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative for the Dressing?
Yes! If you want a dairy-free option, you can substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like coconut or cashew yogurt. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best results!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that cucumbers may become softer as they sit in the dressing, so try to enjoy it fresh for the best crunch!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even cherry tomatoes. Just be mindful of how additional ingredients might alter the dressing-to-vegetable ratio and adjust as needed!
