Creamy Cucumber Salad

Crisp, cool, and perfectly creamy, this Creamy Cucumber Salad is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s ideal for warm days or when you need something refreshing on your plate. Made with fresh cucumbers, red onions, and a smooth, herby yogurt dressing, this salad delivers a bright, tangy crunch with every bite. It’s light enough for a picnic and satisfying enough for a weeknight dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Made with just a few ingredients in under 15 minutes.
• Fresh & Cooling – Perfect for hot days or spicy dishes.
• Naturally Creamy – No need for heavy cream; Greek yogurt does the trick.
• Versatile Pairing – Works great with grilled meats, rice dishes, and more.
• Healthy & Wholesome – A light, guilt-free side you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
• ¼ tsp Dijon mustard (optional for added depth)

Tools You’ll Need

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers.
2. Slice them very thin using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
3. Thinly slice the red onion and set aside.

Step 2: Optional – Salt the Cucumbers
4. Place cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with ½ tsp salt.
5. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
6. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent a watery salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
7. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard if using.
8. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Salad
9. In a large bowl, add sliced cucumbers, red onions, dill, and parsley.
10. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
11. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
12. Give it a light toss and garnish with a little extra dill before serving.

Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad

• Use seedless cucumbers like English or Persian for best texture.
• Chill before serving – it enhances both texture and flavor.
• Adjust tanginess – more vinegar or lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Add-ins – Try chopped fresh mint, thinly sliced radishes, or a sprinkle of feta for variety.
• Don’t skip the garlic – just a little adds a nice savory note.

Serving Suggestions

• With Grilled Chicken – Pairs well with barbecue or marinated grilled meats.
• Alongside Rice Dishes – A cooling counterbalance to spicy or savory meals.
• As a Sandwich Side – Light and refreshing with wraps or paninis.
• Picnic or Potluck – A crowd-pleasing addition to any summer spread.

How to Store & Reuse

Storing:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Stir before serving as the dressing may separate slightly.

Avoid Freezing:

• This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of cucumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but it’s best to peel and deseed them first to reduce bitterness and water content.

2. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or a mix of mayonnaise and yogurt works well too.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Just prepare a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add herbs right before serving for freshness.

4. Is this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, use plant-based yogurt and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cucumber Salad is a timeless dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Its refreshing crunch, paired with a silky yogurt dressing, makes it a must-have recipe for your warm-weather meals. With simple ingredients and a big payoff in flavor, it’s sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Make it once, and you’ll understand why this classic never goes out of style.

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

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 100 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 7g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 220mg

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