Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion

 

🥒 Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion: A Cool, Crunchy Classic

Introduction

There are few side dishes as timeless and refreshing as Creamy Cucumber Salad. With its crisp cucumbers, vibrant red onions, and cool, tangy dressing infused with fresh dill, this salad is a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or even as a light lunch or dinner side, this dish brings a burst of freshness to the table.

Creamy cucumber salad is believed to have originated in Eastern and Central Europe, where versions of it are common in Hungarian, Polish, German, and Scandinavian cuisines. In America, it's often found in Southern kitchens, especially during the sweltering summer months when cucumbers are at their peak. This dish balances sweet, tangy, and creamy elements beautifully, making it an ideal complement to grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or hearty casseroles.

Let’s dive deep into the world of creamy cucumber salad and make the most flavor-packed version with crisp cucumbers, aromatic dill, zesty red onion, and a luscious, tangy dressing that clings to every bite.

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🌿 Ingredients

The key to a great cucumber salad is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic and creamy rendition:

For the Salad:

• 2 large English cucumbers (or 4 medium-sized garden cucumbers)

• ½ large red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)

• Salt, for sweating the cucumbers (about 1 teaspoon)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup sour cream (or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated (optional, for extra flavor)

🔄 Optional Add-Ins:

• Thinly sliced radishes

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese

• Sliced cherry tomatoes

• Chopped chives or scallions

---

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

Option A: English Cucumbers

English cucumbers have thin skin and small seeds, so you don’t need to peel or seed them. Simply:

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers.

2. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice them into very thin rounds.

Option B: Garden Cucumbers

If using thicker-skinned cucumbers:

1. Peel the cucumbers (optional but recommended).

2. Cut them lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a spoon.

3. Slice into thin half-moons.

Step 2: Sweat the Cucumbers

This step is critical for avoiding a watery salad.

1. Place the cucumber slices in a colander.

2. Sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of salt.

3. Let them sit for 30–45 minutes, allowing them to release excess water.

4. After sweating, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry using a clean towel or paper towels.

💡 Why sweat cucumbers? Cucumbers are over 95% water. If you skip this step, your salad will become soupy after chilling.

---

Step 3: Slice the Red Onion

1. Peel and thinly slice half of a red onion into rings or half-moons.

2. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes and drain before using.

---

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• ¾ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons mayo

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Grated garlic, if using

Whisk until smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy but not too thick—adjust with a splash of milk or extra lemon juice if needed.

---

Step 5: Combine and Chill

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped fresh dill.

2. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.

3. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the cucumbers absorb the creamy dressing.

🧊 Bonus: Chilling it overnight makes it even better!

---

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Creamy cucumber salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• As a side for grilled meats: Think BBQ chicken, ribs, sausages, or burgers.

• Next to a roast or baked fish: Its coolness balances rich dishes like salmon or baked cod.

• With boiled potatoes or schnitzel for a German-inspired plate.

• Tucked inside a pita sandwich with falafel or roasted vegetables.

• Served over mixed greens for a creamy, tangy topping.

---

🌈 Variations and Twists

1. Greek-Style Cucumber Salad

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

• Add crumbled feta, olives, and a dash of oregano.

2. Spicy Cucumber Salad

• Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

3. Vegan Cucumber Salad

• Use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt.

• Omit any dairy or egg products.

4. Cucumber-Radish Salad

• Add thinly sliced radishes for color and crunch.

5. Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

• Swap mayo and sour cream for a mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey.

---

💡 Tips and Tricks

• Slice uniformly: Thin, even slices absorb dressing more evenly and have better texture.

• Use fresh dill: It makes a huge difference. Dried dill works in a pinch, but fresh gives the salad a brighter, garden-fresh flavor.

• Balance the acidity: Taste and adjust your lemon juice and vinegar levels to suit your palate.

• Salt at the right time: Salt the cucumbers separately before dressing to avoid a watery salad later.

---

⏱️ Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is a perfect make-ahead dish!

• Fridge Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens over time.

• Don’t freeze: Cucumbers become mushy when frozen.

If making ahead for a crowd or party:

• Prep the cucumbers, onions, and dressing separately.

• Combine 1–2 hours before serving for peak freshness and texture.

---

📋 Nutritional Info (per serving, ~6 servings total)

• Calories: 140

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 250mg

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for more protein and fewer calories.

---

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry and garden staples.

• Super refreshing: Ideal for warm-weather meals.

• Creamy yet light: Perfect balance of richness and tang.

• Highly adaptable: Change it up with herbs, spices, and veggies.

• Crowd-pleasing: Always the first dish to disappear at the potluck table.

---

🥄 Final Thoughts

Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, attending a church potluck, or just looking for something crisp and cool to accompany your weeknight dinner.

This recipe honors the traditional roots of the salad while providing plenty of room for personalization and creativity. It reminds us that sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the simplest ones—the ones that let fresh ingredients shine, complemented by a dressing that's creamy, zesty, and downright delicious.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at cucumbers the same way again.

🥒 Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion: A Cool, Crunchy Classic

Introduction

There are few side dishes as timeless and refreshing as Creamy Cucumber Salad. With its crisp cucumbers, vibrant red onions, and cool, tangy dressing infused with fresh dill, this salad is a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or even as a light lunch or dinner side, this dish brings a burst of freshness to the table.

Creamy cucumber salad is believed to have originated in Eastern and Central Europe, where versions of it are common in Hungarian, Polish, German, and Scandinavian cuisines. In America, it's often found in Southern kitchens, especially during the sweltering summer months when cucumbers are at their peak. This dish balances sweet, tangy, and creamy elements beautifully, making it an ideal complement to grilled meats, roasted potatoes, or hearty casseroles.

Let’s dive deep into the world of creamy cucumber salad and make the most flavor-packed version with crisp cucumbers, aromatic dill, zesty red onion, and a luscious, tangy dressing that clings to every bite.

---

🌿 Ingredients

The key to a great cucumber salad is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic and creamy rendition:

For the Salad:

• 2 large English cucumbers (or 4 medium-sized garden cucumbers)

• ½ large red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)

• Salt, for sweating the cucumbers (about 1 teaspoon)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup sour cream (or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated (optional, for extra flavor)

🔄 Optional Add-Ins:

• Thinly sliced radishes

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese

• Sliced cherry tomatoes

• Chopped chives or scallions

---

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

Option A: English Cucumbers

English cucumbers have thin skin and small seeds, so you don’t need to peel or seed them. Simply:

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers.

2. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice them into very thin rounds.

Option B: Garden Cucumbers

If using thicker-skinned cucumbers:

1. Peel the cucumbers (optional but recommended).

2. Cut them lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a spoon.

3. Slice into thin half-moons.

Step 2: Sweat the Cucumbers

This step is critical for avoiding a watery salad.

1. Place the cucumber slices in a colander.

2. Sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of salt.

3. Let them sit for 30–45 minutes, allowing them to release excess water.

4. After sweating, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry using a clean towel or paper towels.

💡 Why sweat cucumbers? Cucumbers are over 95% water. If you skip this step, your salad will become soupy after chilling.

---

Step 3: Slice the Red Onion

1. Peel and thinly slice half of a red onion into rings or half-moons.

2. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes and drain before using.

---

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• ¾ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons mayo

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Grated garlic, if using

Whisk until smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy but not too thick—adjust with a splash of milk or extra lemon juice if needed.

---

Step 5: Combine and Chill

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped fresh dill.

2. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.

3. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the cucumbers absorb the creamy dressing.

🧊 Bonus: Chilling it overnight makes it even better!

---

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Creamy cucumber salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• As a side for grilled meats: Think BBQ chicken, ribs, sausages, or burgers.

• Next to a roast or baked fish: Its coolness balances rich dishes like salmon or baked cod.

• With boiled potatoes or schnitzel for a German-inspired plate.

• Tucked inside a pita sandwich with falafel or roasted vegetables.

• Served over mixed greens for a creamy, tangy topping.

---

🌈 Variations and Twists

1. Greek-Style Cucumber Salad

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

• Add crumbled feta, olives, and a dash of oregano.

2. Spicy Cucumber Salad

• Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

3. Vegan Cucumber Salad

• Use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt.

• Omit any dairy or egg products.

4. Cucumber-Radish Salad

• Add thinly sliced radishes for color and crunch.

5. Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

• Swap mayo and sour cream for a mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey.

---

💡 Tips and Tricks

• Slice uniformly: Thin, even slices absorb dressing more evenly and have better texture.

• Use fresh dill: It makes a huge difference. Dried dill works in a pinch, but fresh gives the salad a brighter, garden-fresh flavor.

• Balance the acidity: Taste and adjust your lemon juice and vinegar levels to suit your palate.

• Salt at the right time: Salt the cucumbers separately before dressing to avoid a watery salad later.

---

⏱️ Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is a perfect make-ahead dish!

• Fridge Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens over time.

• Don’t freeze: Cucumbers become mushy when frozen.

If making ahead for a crowd or party:

• Prep the cucumbers, onions, and dressing separately.

• Combine 1–2 hours before serving for peak freshness and texture.

---

📋 Nutritional Info (per serving, ~6 servings total)

• Calories: 140

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 250mg

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for more protein and fewer calories.

---

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry and garden staples.

• Super refreshing: Ideal for warm-weather meals.

• Creamy yet light: Perfect balance of richness and tang.

• Highly adaptable: Change it up with herbs, spices, and veggies.

• Crowd-pleasing: Always the first dish to disappear at the potluck table.

---

🥄 Final Thoughts

Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, attending a church potluck, or just looking for something crisp and cool to accompany your weeknight dinner.

This recipe honors the traditional roots of the salad while providing plenty of room for personalization and creativity. It reminds us that sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the simplest ones—the ones that let fresh ingredients shine, complemented by a dressing that's creamy, zesty, and downright delicious.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at cucumbers the same way again.