Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a super fast, refreshing side dish that’s cool, creamy, and just a little tangy — this Creamy Cucumber Salad is about to become your new best friend.

It’s got sour cream, fresh dill, a splash of vinegar, and the perfect crunch from crisp cucumbers and red onions. And guess what? It takes just 5 minutes to make. Yep — seriously.

The Best Cucumber Salad Dressing

This dressing is so simple it might make you question why anyone ever overcomplicates cucumber salad.

Sour cream gives it that rich, creamy base. Vinegar adds a little zing. Fresh dill brings in that herby freshness. A pinch of garlic powder and sugar (optional, but good) tie it all together.

You can tweak it too — swap in Greek yogurt if you want something lighter or add a bit of mayo for extra richness.

Ingredients

Let’s keep it real. You don’t need much for this one.

• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, but balances the tang)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ¼ red onion, sliced thin

That’s it. No fancy stuff. Just fresh, simple ingredients.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Let’s walk through it — quick and easy like we promised.

Step 1: Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, stir together sour cream, vinegar, dill, sugar (if using), and garlic powder. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Boom — done.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Toss in the sliced cucumbers and red onions. Stir until everything is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 3: Chill or Serve Right Away

Want it icy cold? Pop it in the fridge for an hour. Want it now? Eat it right away — no shame here.

What Cucumbers Are Best for Salad?

English cucumbers are your best bet — they’re long, wrapped in plastic, and have tender skin with fewer seeds. They’re crisp, not bitter, and hold up better than regular slicing cucumbers.

If you can’t find English cukes, regular cucumbers work fine too — just peel them and remove the seeds if they’re big and watery.

How to Keep Cucumbers from Getting Soggy

Quick tip: Salt them first and let them sit. Toss sliced cucumbers with a little salt, let them rest for 10–15 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This pulls out excess water and helps keep your salad from getting runny.

Or, if you’re short on time, just serve the salad soon after mixing — the longer it sits, the more liquid comes out.

Variations

Make it your own — here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add a spoonful of mayo or mustard for a richer flavor.
• Throw in chopped fresh parsley or chives instead of dill.
• Grate the cucumbers for a slaw-style texture.
• Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a salty kick.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or lemon juice if you like a little zing.

What to Serve with Creamy Cucumber Salad

This salad is a total team player. It goes great with:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork
• Fish or shrimp
• Bratwatts or burgers
• As a topping for tacos or gyros

It’s especially good in the summer when you want something light and refreshing next to something smoky or spicy.

Make-Ahead Tip

If you want to get ahead, mix the dressing and store it separately in the fridge. Prep and salt the cucumbers and onions, then keep them chilled in a separate container. Combine right before serving.