Creamy Cucumber Salad – Easy Refreshing Summer Side Dish

By: Lina's Kitchen
Posted: 09/28/2025

Creamy Cucumber Salad

A creamy cucumber salad is one of those timeless side dishes that never goes out of style. Crisp cucumber slices combined with a smooth, tangy dressing create a refreshing balance that pairs well with almost any main dish. This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

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In this post, you will find everything you need to prepare the best creamy cucumber salad, along with helpful tips, variations, and storage advice to ensure the perfect result every time.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Salad

It’s quick to prepare in less than 15 minutes.
Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Perfectly refreshing for hot days.
Can be made ahead of time for convenience.
A versatile side dish that pairs with meats, fish, or vegetarian meals.

Recipe Card

Summary

This creamy cucumber salad is refreshing, tangy, and easy to prepare. With crisp cucumbers, onions, and a smooth dressing, it makes the perfect side dish for summer meals.

Servings

4 servings

Estimated Cost

$5 – budget-friendly

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

0 minutes

Rest Time

30 minutes (chilling recommended)

Total Time

45 minutes

Courses

Salad, Side Dish

Cuisines

American, European

Keywords

creamy cucumber salad, cucumber side dish, summer salad, easy cucumber recipe

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the thinly sliced red onion to the cucumbers.
In a separate small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Toss until well coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 120
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 150mg

Notes

For extra crunch, you can sprinkle in some sliced radishes.
If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
This salad is best served chilled and eaten within 2 days for maximum freshness.
Fresh dill adds the best flavor, but dried dill works if fresh isn’t available.

Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad

Salt your cucumbers lightly before mixing to reduce excess water and keep the salad from becoming watery.
Adjust the dressing thickness by adding a splash of milk if you prefer it lighter.
Make it ahead – prepare in the morning and let it chill until dinner for richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, roasted salmon, or vegetarian dishes like quinoa bowls. It’s especially popular at potlucks and outdoor picnics because it’s refreshing and crowd-pleasing.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, as the cucumbers may release water over time.