Creamy Cucumber Salad

Light, refreshing, and irresistibly creamy, this Creamy Cucumber Salad is the ultimate side dish for warm-weather meals. Crisp cucumbers are tossed in a tangy and smooth dressing made with yogurt, herbs, and a hint of garlic, creating a salad that’s both cooling and full of flavor. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or serving it at a picnic, this dish adds a delicious balance to any plate.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light & Fresh – Crisp cucumbers offer a refreshing bite with every forkful.
• Creamy But Not Heavy – Yogurt-based dressing is luscious without being overly rich.
• Ready in Minutes – Comes together in less than 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Naturally Gluten-Free – A healthy, satisfying side everyone can enjoy.
• Versatile Pairing – Great with BBQ, baked dishes, or as part of a light lunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 4 cups cucumber, thinly sliced (about 2 large English cucumbers)
• ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for extra richness)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tsp honey (balances the tang)
• 1 clove garlic, finely grated or minced
• ¼ tsp ground mustard (optional for a subtle tangy kick)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Small whisk or fork
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry your cucumbers thoroughly.
2. Slice them very thinly—using a mandoline if you want uniform, delicate slices.
3. Thinly slice the red onion and set aside.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers (Optional for Extra Crunch)
4. Place the cucumber slices in a colander. Sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and toss gently.
5. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
6. Pat dry with paper towels before mixing into the salad. This step helps prevent a watery dressing.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
7. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, garlic, and ground mustard if using.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or extra vinegar for more tang.

Step 4: Toss the Salad
9. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onions, dill, and parsley.
10. Pour the dressing over the veggies and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill & Serve
11. Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
12. Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad

• Use English or Persian Cucumbers – They’re seedless, crisp, and less watery.
• Thin Slices Work Best – Thin cucumbers absorb dressing better and feel lighter.
• Let It Chill – This salad tastes even better after a short rest in the fridge.
• Add Crunch – For extra texture, top with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts just before serving.
• Swap the Yogurt – Use sour cream or a mix of mayo and yogurt if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

• With Grilled Chicken – Makes a perfect contrast to smoky, grilled meats.
• In Sandwiches – Adds a creamy crunch to wraps or veggie sandwiches.
• Alongside Rice or Couscous – Balances heavier dishes with a light bite.
• Paired with Spiced Dishes – Great with mildly spiced curries or kebabs for a cooling effect.

How to Store & Reuse

Storing:

• Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Stir well before serving as the dressing may separate slightly.

Avoid Freezing:

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing will change the texture of the cucumbers and ruin the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, but peel them and scoop out the seeds to prevent excess water.

2. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream, plain yogurt, or even a mix of mayonnaise and yogurt.

3. How do I make it vegan?
Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and swap honey with maple syrup or agave.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Make it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cucumber Salad is a go-to side dish for a reason—it’s fresh, flavorful, and super simple to make. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or just need a quick side for dinner, this salad delivers every time. It’s healthy, satisfying, and comes together in no time, making it a staple for any home cook.

Try it once, and it’ll become a regular part of your weekly meal prep lineup!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 280mg

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