cucumber salad

Introduction

Cucumber salad is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re sitting down to a summer barbecue, looking for a refreshing winter side, or planning a healthy meal prep menu, a good cucumber salad offers crunch, freshness, and a welcome contrast to heavier main dishes.

This Classic Creamy Cucumber Salad is cool, crisp, and simple, featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing made with sour cream, vinegar, fresh herbs, and a hint of sugar. It’s incredibly quick to make and perfect for anyone craving a light and satisfying dish that delivers on both flavor and texture.

But this isn’t just any cucumber salad—this is the kind of recipe that becomes a family staple. It’s the one your guests ask you for. The one that tastes like summer, no matter the season.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, preparation tips, and variations to make it your own.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Salad:

2 large English cucumbers or 4 medium garden cucumbers
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt (for sweating the cucumbers)
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

🔪 Optional Add-ins:

1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onion
A sprinkle of paprika for color
1–2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a richer dressing
Thinly sliced radishes for added crunch and spice
A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved

🍽 Equipment Needed:

Cutting board & sharp knife
Mandoline slicer (optional, for ultra-thin cucumber slices)
Large mixing bowl
Small whisk or fork
Paper towels or a colander

🧂 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and peel the cucumbers if the skin is thick or waxed. For English cucumbers with tender skin, you can leave the skin on for extra nutrients and color contrast.
Slice the cucumbers thinly—about 1/8 inch thick—using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even pieces.
Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a bowl or colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 20–30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring the salad doesn’t become watery later.
After the resting time, rinse the cucumbers gently under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, lay them on paper towels and pat dry thoroughly.

💡 Why sweat cucumbers? Cucumbers are about 95% water. Sweating them with salt helps keep your salad creamy, not watery.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a separate mixing bowl, combine:
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A squeeze of lemon juice if using
Whisk well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

🧄 Garlic Tip: If you love garlic, try finely grating a fresh clove instead of using powder for a more intense flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the drained cucumbers and sliced red onion.
Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

🥶 Pro tip: Serve it cold for the most refreshing experience.

🌿 Flavor Variations

This cucumber salad is endlessly customizable. Here are some ways to tweak it:

1. German-Style Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)

Use white vinegar, sugar, and fresh dill—skip the sour cream for a lighter vinaigrette-based version.

2. Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

Swap sour cream for rice vinegar and sesame oil. Add soy sauce, red chili flakes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

3. Creamy Avocado Cucumber Salad

Add diced ripe avocado for creaminess and richness. A squeeze of lime brings it together.

4. Greek Cucumber Salad

Add halved Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of chopped cherry tomatoes.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

This cucumber salad pairs well with:

Grilled meats like chicken, pork, or steak
Roasted salmon or trout
Barbecue dishes—brisket, ribs, pulled pork
Sandwiches and wraps as a cooling side
Mediterranean platters with hummus, pita, and falafel

It’s also the perfect side dish for holiday dinners or a quick weekday lunch. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

🧊 Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Do not freeze—cucumbers don’t thaw well and will turn mushy.

❄️ Tip: For best texture, add the dressing just before serving if you’re prepping in advance.

🧠 Nutritional Insight

This salad is not just delicious—it’s good for you, too.

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in hydration and fiber.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds probiotics and protein.
Onions offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dill and herbs bring micronutrients and digestion benefits.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: ~90–120
Protein: 2–4g
Fat: 7–10g (depending on dressing base)
Carbs: 4–6g
Fiber: 1–2g

💬 Common Questions

Can I make cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just sweat and dry the cucumbers well to prevent sogginess. Dressing can be made in advance too.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is tangy and creamy—just add a splash of olive oil if you want the richness of sour cream.

What if I don’t like onions?
You can omit them or use milder green onions or shallots. Soaking sliced red onion in water for 10 minutes can also mellow the flavor.

📝 Final Thoughts

Cucumber salad is a lesson in simplicity. It shows us that the freshest, most humble ingredients can create the most lasting culinary impressions. With its clean flavor, vibrant texture, and cooling nature, it’s the kind of dish that transcends seasons and trends.

Make it for a picnic. Serve it at a dinner party. Pack it in your lunch. Share it with someone you love. No matter how or when you eat it, this creamy cucumber salad is bound to refresh your palate and your spirit.

cucumber salad

Introduction