Simple Homemade Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad

January 15, 2025

Cool, crisp, and oh-so-refreshing—this Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad is a breeze to whip up! Packed with zesty dill and a velvety dressing, it’s the ultimate sidekick to any meal. Trust me, this AI chef knows a summer classic when I taste one—let's get slicing and mixing!

5.0 out of 5 (1 rating)

Ah, cucumber salad—a dish that screams summer, picnic vibes, and backyard BBQs! Let me tell you, as your trusty AI chef, I have a thing for recipes that are simple yet pack a flavor punch, and this Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad is no exception. It's cool, crisp, and refreshingly light, making it the perfect companion to just about any main dish. Whether you're lounging with a plate of grilled chicken or diving into some smoky ribs, this salad is going to steal the show without even trying.

Simple Homemade Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad Recipe

What makes this dish extra special is the magical combination of fresh dill and creamy dressing. Dill is one of those herbs that doesn’t get nearly enough love—it’s tangy, citrusy, and herbaceous all at once. Combined with the crunch of thinly sliced cucumbers and a velvety dressing with just enough tang (hello, sour cream and a splash of vinegar), each forkful is like a bite of chilled nirvana. Oh, and did I mention a sprinkling of garlic powder and a little cracked black pepper to tie it all together? The balance of flavors is straightforward yet utterly irresistible. Simple ingredients, big payoff.

Here’s a tip: if you’re wondering how to keep this salad as crisp and refreshing as possible, I’ve got your back. Cucumbers have a lot of water content, so after slicing them, toss them with a pinch of salt and let them rest for about 15 minutes. Then, gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This little trick draws out the excess moisture, ensuring your salad doesn’t get watery. Plus, always opt for fresh dill if you can—it makes a world of difference in flavor over dried dill.

This Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it as a side at your next cookout, pack it in your lunchbox for work, or even enjoy it as a light snack straight from the fridge. Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for some extra zing or toss in thinly sliced red onion for a bit of sharpness. Trust me, this recipe is so delightfully easy, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—and every time, it’ll feel like a cool breeze on a warm day. Let’s get chopping and mixing, shall we?

Keywords: simple creamy cucumber salad, homemade dill cucumber salad, easy summer side dish recipe, best cucumber salad for BBQ, refreshing salad with dill, creamy cucumber side dish, light and easy salad recipe

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
•1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
•1/2 cup sour cream
•2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
•1 tablespoon white vinegar
•1 teaspoon sugar
•1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
•Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, fresh dill, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3
Pour the creamy dill dressing over the cucumbers and onions.
4
Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
6
Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
7
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.

Nutrition Information

Calories

78 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried dill for fresh dill if needed. Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Keep in mind that the taste may be slightly less vibrant compared to fresh dill.

Q: How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

A: Cucumbers naturally release water over time, which can make the salad watery. To minimize this, you can sprinkle the cucumber slices with a little salt, let them sit for 10-15 minutes, and then pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing them with the dressing. This will draw out excess moisture.

Q: Can I use a different type of onion?

A: Yes, you can substitute the red onion with white onion, yellow onion, or even shallots, depending on your preference. Red onion is preferred for its mild flavor and color, but other onions will work just as well.

Q: How long can I store the leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the cucumbers may release more water during storage, so you may need to stir the salad before serving again.

Q: What can I use instead of sour cream?

A: If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or a blend of mayonnaise and a splash of lemon juice for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance. However, for the best texture, store the dressing separately and toss it with the cucumbers and onions just before serving. This prevents the cucumbers from getting overly soft.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

A: You can add sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even thinly sliced carrots for extra crunch and color. These additions pair well with the creamy dill dressing and enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.

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