Cucumber Dill Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing

Cucumber Dill Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing

This Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy side dish that perfectly balances the cool crispness of cucumbers with a smooth, flavorful dressing. It’s one of those timeless summer salads that never go out of style — light enough to accompany grilled meats or sandwiches, yet satisfying enough to enjoy on its own.

 Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (you can peel them if preferred)
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Dressing:

• ¾ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them into thin, even rounds. If you prefer a softer salad, you can peel the cucumbers before slicing. Place the slices in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and toss gently.
Let them sit for about 20–30 minutes — this helps draw out excess water and keeps the dressing from becoming watery later.

After resting, drain the cucumbers and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This step makes a huge difference in keeping your salad creamy and flavorful instead of soggy.

2. Make the Creamy Garlic Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
  Season generously with salt and pepper, then taste and adjust according to your preference.
  If the dressing feels too thick, you can thin it slightly with 1–2 teaspoons of cold water.

The key is balance: you want tanginess from the vinegar or lemon, creaminess from the sour cream, and a hint of sharpness from the garlic.

3. Combine the Salad

Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers (and red onions, if using). Add the fresh chopped dill and toss everything gently until all slices are well coated.
Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving — this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

 Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad:

 

• Drain well: Don’t skip salting the cucumbers — it keeps the salad crisp.
• Use fresh dill: It gives the salad a bright, herbal aroma that dried dill can’t match.
• Customize: You can add a pinch of paprika, chives, or parsley for extra flavor.
• Make ahead: This salad actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the dressing soaks into the cucumbers.

 Serving Ideas:

This creamy cucumber salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, fish, or even sandwiches. It’s also a fantastic dish for potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues — light, refreshing, and always a crowd favorite.

Serve it chilled in a rustic bowl, sprinkle some extra fresh dill on top, and finish with a pinch of cracked black pepper for presentation.

 Storage:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving since the dressing may thin out slightly as the cucumbers release moisture.

 Variations You Can Try:

1. Cucumber Yogurt Salad (Greek-style): Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and add a bit of olive oil and minced mint.
2. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne for a mild kick.
3. Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and coconut yogurt for the dressing.
4. German-style Cucumber Salad: Skip the mayo, use vinegar, sugar, and oil for a tangier, lighter version.

 Final Thoughts:

This Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad is more than a side dish — it’s a celebration of freshness. The crisp cucumbers, fragrant dill, and creamy garlic dressing come together to create a salad that feels indulgent yet light. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weekday meal, or looking for a refreshing complement to spicy foods, this dish delivers every single time.