This refreshing creamy cucumber salad is made with crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, fresh dill, and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s a simple, cool, and delicious side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, picnics, and healthy everyday meals.
Easy
No-Cook
Vegetarian
Nut-Free Ingredients
Prep: 15 minutes
Chill: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Salad
3 large English cucumbers or 5–6 medium cucumbers
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
For the Creamy Dressing
½ cup (120 g) sour cream
¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic, finely minced
½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey (optional)
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water and pat them dry. Trim off the ends and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, approximately ⅛–¼ inch thick.
If using regular cucumbers with thick skin or large seeds, peel them partially or completely and scoop out the seeds if desired. English cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skins and fewer seeds.
Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers (Optional)
Place the sliced cucumbers in a large colander and sprinkle with a little salt. Toss gently and allow them to rest for 15–20 minutes.
This helps draw out excess moisture and keeps the salad from becoming watery. After resting, gently pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Slice the Red Onion
Peel the red onion and slice it into very thin strips. Thin slices provide a mild, pleasant crunch without overpowering the refreshing cucumber flavor.
If you prefer a milder onion taste, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes. Drain thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Dill
Rinse the fresh dill and parsley under cold water and pat dry. Finely chop the herbs, removing any thick stems.
Fresh dill provides the signature bright, herby flavor that complements the cool cucumbers and creamy dressing.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and optional sugar or honey.
Add the salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth, creamy, and well combined.
Stir in the chopped fresh dill and parsley. Taste the dressing and adjust the lemon juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
Step 6: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Place the prepared cucumber slices and thinly sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the creamy dill dressing over the vegetables. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss until the cucumber slices and onions are evenly coated.
Be careful not to crush the cucumbers, as they should retain their crisp texture.
Step 7: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for approximately 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Chilling also makes the salad extra refreshing. Avoid leaving it for too long before serving, as cucumbers naturally release moisture over time.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the salad from the refrigerator and gently toss it once more. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Garnish with additional fresh dill, a little cracked black pepper, and a few thin slices of red onion.
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Cooking Tips
Use fresh cucumbers: Firm cucumbers with smooth, unblemished skin provide the best crunch.
Remove excess moisture: Salting and draining the cucumbers helps prevent a watery dressing.
Use fresh dill: Fresh dill provides a brighter, more aromatic flavor than dried dill.
Slice evenly: Uniform cucumber slices help the dressing coat each piece consistently.
Chill before serving: A short refrigeration period allows the flavors to develop.
Adjust the tanginess: Add extra lemon juice or vinegar if you prefer a sharper flavor.
Make it lighter: Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
Avoid overdressing: Add the dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted fish.
Pair with grilled sausages or barbecue dishes.
Enjoy with toasted sourdough bread or warm pita.
Serve with grilled vegetables, baked potatoes, or rice.
Add to a Mediterranean-inspired lunch platter with olives, hummus, and pita.
Serve chilled at summer picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days, although the salad is best enjoyed freshly made.
Before serving: Drain any excess liquid and gently stir to redistribute the dressing.
Make-ahead tip: Prepare the dressing and slice the onion in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately, and slice and dress the cucumbers shortly before serving.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because cucumbers lose their crisp texture and the creamy dressing may separate.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings using sour cream and mayonnaise.
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
135 kcal
Protein
2 g
Carbohydrates
8 g
Dietary Fiber
1.5 g
Total Fat
11 g
Saturated Fat
4 g
Sugar
4 g
Sodium
290 mg
Cholesterol
15 mg
Nut Information
No nuts in the listed ingredients
This creamy cucumber salad contains no intentionally added peanuts, tree nuts, or nut-based ingredients.
Peanuts: 0 g
Tree nuts: 0 g
Nut-based ingredients: None
Allergy note: Check the labels of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and other packaged ingredients for allergen and cross-contact warnings. For severe nut allergies, use verified safe products and clean preparation equipment.
Contains: Milk (sour cream).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I keep creamy cucumber salad from getting watery?
Salt the sliced cucumbers and let them drain in a colander for 15–20 minutes. Pat them dry before mixing with the dressing. This removes excess moisture and helps the salad stay creamy.
2. Can I make cucumber salad without mayonnaise?
Yes. Replace the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or use additional sour cream. Greek yogurt creates a tangy, protein-rich dressing with a slightly lighter texture.
3. Can I prepare creamy cucumber salad the night before?
It’s best to prepare the dressing and slice the onion in advance, then store them separately. Add the dressing to the freshly sliced cucumbers shortly before serving to preserve their crunch.
4. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Yes. Use approximately 2 teaspoons of dried dill in place of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill. Allow the dressing to rest for a few minutes so the dried herbs can rehydrate and release their flavor.
5. What can I add to make this salad more flavorful?
You can add extra garlic, fresh chives, a little crumbled feta cheese, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. A small amount of lemon zest also adds a bright, refreshing flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy cucumber salad with dill and red onion is a refreshing, easy-to-make side dish that’s full of cool, crisp textures and tangy, herby flavor. The creamy dressing perfectly complements the fresh cucumbers, while the red onion adds a little crunch and sweetness. Whether served at a summer barbecue, family dinner, or casual lunch, this simple salad is a delicious addition to almost any meal.