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Best Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad Recipe (Easy & Homemade)

creamy dill cucumber salad - featured image

This creamy dill cucumber salad is a quick, refreshing side dish perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch. The secret is salting the cucumbers to keep the dressing thick and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 English cucumbers
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for salting)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the English cucumbers. Trim the ends, but leave the skin on. Slice into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Peel the red onion and slice thinly into half-moons. If sensitive to raw onion, soak slices in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  3. Place the sliced cucumbers and red onions in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and toss to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Transfer the salted vegetables to a colander and rinse quickly with cold water to remove excess salt. Shake well to remove as much water as possible; pat dry with a clean towel if needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a generous pinch of black pepper until smooth.
  6. Stir in the chopped fresh dill, reserving a little for garnish.
  7. Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the dressing. Gently fold until every slice is coated.
  8. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  9. Give the salad a final stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with reserved dill and a few cracks of black pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not skip the salting stepโ€”it prevents a watery dressing. Use fresh dill for the best flavor. The salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance; stir before serving. Do not freeze or reheat.

Nutrition

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