This refreshing creamy cucumber salad delivers crisp texture, cool flavor, and a velvety sour cream dressing that clings perfectly to every slice. It’s simple, quick, and made with fresh ingredients that come together beautifully for a balanced and satisfying side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and refreshing. The cucumbers stay crisp thanks to a proper salting and draining step, and the sour cream dressing offers a smooth richness that never feels heavy. It pairs well with countless meals, works wonderfully for gatherings, and comes together in less than an hour with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special spread, this recipe brings both simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large English cucumbers (about 2 pounds), thinly sliced
1 cup full-fat sour cream
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 2 teaspoons for salting cucumbers
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into even rounds and place them in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and toss gently. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk the sour cream until smooth. Add the white wine vinegar, sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Fold in the garlic (if using) and most of the dill, reserving a small amount for garnish.
3. Assemble the salad: Gently press the cucumbers to release remaining moisture. Transfer them to a large bowl, add the red onion, and pour the dressing over. Fold everything together carefully. Sprinkle with the reserved dill before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich version.
• Replace red onion with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Substitute apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar for a fruitier acidity.
• Use fresh chives or parsley if dill is not available.
• Add thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight glass container for up to 3 days, though the best texture is within the first 48 hours. Do not freeze, as cucumbers lose their crispness after thawing. For advance preparation, keep the cucumbers and dressing separate and combine just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad a day ahead?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, and the flavors will continue to develop.

Why does my cucumber salad turn watery?

This happens when cucumbers aren’t salted and drained long enough. The 30-minute salting step helps remove excess moisture.

Can I use Persian or Kirby cucumbers?

Yes. Use 6–8 Persian cucumbers or 5–6 Kirby cucumbers. Their lower water content requires slightly less draining time.

Is this salad suitable for a keto diet?

Yes. Simply replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener.

How can I reduce the strong taste of red onion?

Soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use a dairy-free sour cream alternative for a similar creamy effect.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, thinly sliced radishes, chives, or even a bit of grated carrot can complement the flavors well.

Why is my dressing too thick?

Whisk in a small splash of vinegar until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Should I peel the cucumbers?

English cucumbers do not need peeling due to their thin skins, but you may peel them partially for a decorative look.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce or omit the sugar entirely depending on your taste.

Conclusion

This creamy cucumber salad is a simple yet flavorful side dish that highlights fresh ingredients and a well-balanced sour cream dressing. With its crisp texture, cooling profile, and versatile pairing options, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. Whether served at a gathering or as part of a weeknight meal, it offers dependable results and satisfying flavor every time.

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