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Fresh Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad

fresh creamy cucumber dill salad recipe - featured image

A quick and easy creamy cucumber dill salad that is refreshing, tangy, and perfect for summer. This simple side dish comes together in under 5 minutes and is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, full-fat preferred
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 2 medium English cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm thick). Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Thinly slice about 1/4 small red onion into fine rings or half-moons. Rinse briefly in cold water to soften the sharpness if desired, then drain well and add to the cucumber bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Finely chop about 2 tablespoons fresh dill (stems removed) and add it to the dressing. Stir to incorporate evenly.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly without drowning the cucumbers.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and chill.
  7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or lemon juice if needed. Toss gently and drain any excess liquid if the salad is watery.

Notes

If cucumbers are watery, sprinkle with salt and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes before mixing to prevent sogginess. Use fresh dill for best flavor; if using dried dill, use half the amount. The salad tastes better after chilling for at least 15 minutes. Can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version. Avoid freezing leftovers as texture will degrade.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, dill salad, summer salad, easy side dish, quick salad, fresh cucumber salad