This Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is fresh and cool, perfect for hot days. It’s made with crunchy cucumbers, creamy yogurt, and a hint of dill!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad that feels like a treat? I often serve it alongside grilled food. It’s like a mini-vacation on my plate! 😄
I really enjoy how quick and simple it is to whip up this salad. Just chop, mix, and chill! It adds a nice touch to any meal without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch! English cucumbers are my favorite because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If they’re unavailable, regular cucumbers work too. You can peel them if you like less skin.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I often switch between sour cream and Greek yogurt depending on my mood. Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and protein, but if you want a tangier taste, go for sour cream.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a vibrant flavor to this salad! If fresh isn’t available, dried dill is a great substitute. Just use less—1 teaspoon dried dill equals about 1 tablespoon fresh.
Vinegar or Lemon Juice: I love using fresh lemon juice for a brighter taste. However, white vinegar is a good choice if you want a bit of tang without the citrusy flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Cucumbers Stay Crunchy?
The secret to keeping your cucumbers crisp is to salt them before mixing with the dressing. Here’s how:
- After slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit in a colander for about 10-15 minutes.
- This process draws out excess water, preventing the salad from becoming watery.
- Once they finish draining, gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel before combining them with the dressing.
This trick makes a huge difference in the texture! Enjoy your salad! 😊
Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes in the fridge to chill. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them thinly. If you want a milder flavor, feel free to peel them first. Set them aside while you make the dressing!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt, white vinegar or lemon juice, chopped dill, sugar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing will make your salad shine!
3. Combine and Toss:
Now, add the thinly sliced cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the cucumber slices are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers; we want them to stay nice and crisp!
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes the salad refreshing!
5. Final Touches:
Once ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or dill if you’d like. Garnish with additional dill for a lovely presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are great for this salad due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers will work just fine too. You can also try Persian cucumbers for a smaller, crunchier option!
How Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
To make this salad dairy-free, substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Just ensure it’s unflavored for the best taste!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy cucumber salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, try to enjoy it within the first 1-2 days. As time passes, the cucumbers may release water, making the salad a bit soggy.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chopped red onion, bell peppers, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the dressing if you add more ingredients so everything stays perfectly coated!
