This delicious creamy cucumber salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. Made with fresh cucumbers, tangy sour cream, and aromatic dill, this healthy salad recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare. It’s ideal for summer barbecues, potluck dinners, or as a light refreshing snack.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
This easy cucumber salad combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with a creamy, flavorful dressing. The combination of sour cream and apple cider vinegar creates a perfectly balanced taste that’s both tangy and smooth. It’s a healthy, low-calorie side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and thinly slicing your cucumbers and red onion. For best results, use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to get uniform, thin slices. Place the sliced cucumbers and onion in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, chopped fresh dill, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Let Flavors Develop
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cucumbers to absorb the delicious dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cucumber salad works perfectly as:
- A refreshing side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or beef
- A healthy addition to your summer barbecue spread
- A light lunch option paired with crusty bread
- A cooling complement to spicy dishes
- A nutritious snack any time of day
Storage Tips
Store leftover cucumber salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers may release water over time. Give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Try substituting dill with fresh parsley, chives, or mint
- Protein Addition: Add crumbled feta cheese or sliced hard-boiled eggs
- Spicy Version: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño
- Lighter Option: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein
Nutritional Benefits
Cucumbers are low in calories but high in water content, making this salad incredibly hydrating. They’re also a good source of vitamin K and potassium. The fresh dill adds antioxidants and has digestive benefits, while the apple cider vinegar may help with blood sugar regulation.
This easy creamy cucumber salad recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that’s ready in minutes!
