A Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs perfectly with just about any meal. It combines crisp cucumber with a rich, creamy dressing, making it a delightful addition to picnics, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight dinner.
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Creamy Cucumber Salad:
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced (you can also leave the peel on for extra color and nutrients)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a healthier version)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tsp sugar (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Peel the cucumbers if desired (especially if they have thick skins) and slice them thinly into rounds. You can also slice them into half-moons if you prefer.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and toss. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release excess water. Afterward, gently pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, white vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and sugar (if using). Stir everything together until smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or more dill as needed.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion (if using). Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything together gently until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
4. Chill the Salad:
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the creamy cucumber salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
5. Serve:
- Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley before serving, if desired. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a light summer meal.
Tips:
- Make it Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version, use only Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat sour cream instead of regular mayonnaise.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor and crunch, try adding chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance or even the night before. The flavors will continue to develop and become even tastier!
Enjoy!
This creamy cucumber salad is the perfect combination of tangy, creamy, and refreshing flavors. It’s an easy, versatile dish that can be customized to your taste.