Name: Creamy Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste

This creamy cucumber salad is a cool, tangy, and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for warm weather. The crisp cucumbers are combined with a light, creamy dressing, and the addition of dill gives it a fresh, flavorful punch. It’s a dish that’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal accompaniment for any meal.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

1 clove garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

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

Directions

First, I place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle them with a little salt. I let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out any excess moisture. After that, I gently pat them dry with paper towels.

In a mixing bowl, I combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if I’m using it), minced garlic, and fresh dill. I stir everything together until smooth and well combined.

Next, I add the cucumbers to the dressing and toss gently to coat them evenly.

I then season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste.

To let all the flavors meld together, I refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

I serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish with my favorite main courses.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes (including refrigeration time)

Variations

Vegan Option: Swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for plant-based alternatives like vegan yogurt and mayo.

Add Protein: For a heartier dish, I like to add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

Spicy Kick: If I want to add a bit of heat, I might toss in a small amount of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Herbs: In addition to dill, I sometimes experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a different flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, I find that it’s best when served within the first day or two to maintain its crisp texture.

Since this dish is served cold, there’s no need for reheating. Just give it a good stir before serving again if it has been sitting in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it ahead of time! Just be sure to let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, so the flavors can meld together.

Is this cucumber salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re using store-bought mayo, be sure to check the label to ensure it’s also gluten-free.

Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?

I’ve tried this with sour cream, and it works just as well! It gives the salad a slightly different flavor, but still creamy and delicious.

What can I serve this cucumber salad with?

I love serving it as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or even burgers. It also pairs beautifully with other fresh salads or as part of a light lunch.

Can I add more veggies to the salad?

Absolutely! I sometimes add a handful of cherry tomatoes or red onion slices to the mix for added flavor and color. It’s all about making it your own!

Conclusion

This creamy cucumber salad is my go-to refreshing side dish for warm days. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and so versatile that I can customize it however I like. Whether it’s part of a casual meal or a picnic spread, I always find it to be a crowd-pleaser. With its cool and creamy texture, it’s the perfect addition to any summer table.

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