Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is a refreshing, cool, and lightly tangy side dish that’s perfect for warm weather meals. Crisp cucumbers are thinly sliced and tossed with delicate red onion, then coated in a creamy dressing flavored with fresh dill and a touch of acidity. This classic salad is simple, timeless, and incredibly satisfying, making it a great companion to grilled meats, sandwiches, or light summer dinners.
What makes this salad special is its balance of textures and flavors. The cucumbers stay crunchy, the red onion adds gentle sharpness, and the creamy dressing ties everything together without feeling heavy. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes even better after a short chill in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
¾ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
1–2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. If the skin is thick or waxy, peel them lightly; otherwise, leaving the skin on adds color and texture. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoliner and place them in a large bowl.
Add the thinly sliced red onion to the cucumbers. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the onion slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well before adding them to the bowl.
In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the sour cream or Greek yogurt with the mayonnaise, if using. Stir in the lemon juice or vinegar until smooth. Add the chopped fresh dill, along with salt and black pepper, and mix until fully blended.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated in the creamy dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as cucumbers release water and can become soft.
For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become extra refreshing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad chilled as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs. It also pairs well with sandwiches, burgers, or picnic-style meals. For extra texture, you can add sliced radishes or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top just before serving.
Light, creamy, and herb-fresh, this cucumber salad is a simple dish that delivers classic comfort with every bite. 🥗💚