Creamy Cucumber Salad Dill

Creamy cucumber salad is that cool refreshing side dish everyone seems to remember from childhood picnics and summer potlucks. Its creamy tangy dressing with plenty of fresh dill pairs perfectly with crisp cucumbers and red onion making it an instant classic for backyard barbecues or a quick weeknight addition.

My first time making this was straight from Grandma’s handwritten card the taste transported me right back to summers on her porch and now it is a must make every year when local cucumbers fill the markets

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: thinly sliced using a sharp knife or mandoline for maximum crunch Choose firm seedless cucumbers if possible
• Red onion: sliced thin for a mild bite and beautiful color Look for one with bright shiny skin and no soft spots
• Sour cream: gives the salad its signature creamy texture Use full fat for best flavor but low fat works in a pinch
• White vinegar: provides a tangy note to balance the richness Ensure it is clear and bright with no cloudiness
• Fresh dill: brings a burst of herbal freshness Sniff for vibrant aroma and bright green fronds
• Granulated sugar: just a touch balances the acidity only use if the cucumbers are extra fresh for that mild sweetness
• Salt: brightens the flavors throughout the salad Look for fine ground kosher salt for even seasoning
• Garlic powder: adds a subtle depth without overpowering Look for one with a fine even texture and strong scent

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Vegetables:

Cut the onion into thin slices using a sharp knife or mandoline for evenness Wash cucumbers and slice thinly as well then pat them dry with paper towels to soak up any extra moisture

Mix the Creamy Dressing:

In a medium mixing bowl combine sour cream white vinegar minced fresh dill granulated sugar salt and garlic powder Whisk thoroughly until you see no streaks and the mixture feels smooth

Combine and Toss:

Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to your bowl Toss gently using a spatula or clean hands so everything is evenly coated with dressing

Finish and Serve:

Garnish the salad with more fresh dill and a grind of black pepper if you like Serve straight away or transfer to the fridge to chill and let flavors blend

Pin it

Dill is my favorite part of this salad That fresh bright herbal note reminds me every time of summer at Grandma’s house when she would pick dill right from the garden and we would laugh together while making lunch

Storage Tips

This salad is best if you let it chill at least an hour before serving The flavors meld and the dressing clings more evenly Store any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge They are good for three days but after that the cucumbers may start to soften too much

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter touch or use apple cider vinegar instead of white for a subtly different tang Chives work well if you cannot find fresh dill and if you want even bolder flavor toss in a little finely chopped parsley

Serving Suggestions

Creamy cucumber salad shines next to grilled chicken or burgers It is also delicious added to sandwiches or wraps for crunch and juiciness For an easy lunch try spooning it over a slice of crusty bread

Cultural and Historical Context

This salad traces back to many Eastern European kitchens where cucumbers and sour cream are classic partners With dill being common in those regions variations of this dish appear on many family tables across generations and continents

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I keep cucumbers crisp in the salad?

Pat cucumber slices dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture and ensure a crunchy texture.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it about an hour in advance and storing chilled allows the flavors to combine beautifully.

→ What type of dill works best?

Fresh dill adds the brightest flavor, but dried dill can be used if fresh is unavailable; use half the amount.

→ How long does the salad last?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain the best texture and taste.

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt makes a lighter alternative while preserving the creamy texture and tangy flavor.

→ What pairs well with this cucumber salad?

This salad complements grilled meats, sandwiches, or other picnic favorites, adding a refreshing contrast.