Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad for Your Next Summer BBQ

Too hot to turn on the oven? This creamy cucumber salad is for you.

It is the perfect refreshing side for a sunny afternoon. You will love how it brightens up any meal. It delivers a cool, crisp crunch in every single bite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true summer classic for a reason. It is incredibly budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples. Your family will love the tangy and sweet dressing.

It is perfect for busy summer weeknights when time is short. You can even make it ahead for your next big picnic. It is a crowd-pleaser that everyone always asks for.

Simple Cooking Steps

Making this salad is completely stress-free and very quick. There is no cooking required at all for this dish. You just need to slice, whisk, and toss it together.

Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. The secret is letting the cucumbers drain their extra water. This ensures your salad stays creamy and thick every time.

Ingredients You Will Need

These fresh ingredients are likely already in your kitchen right now.

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Place sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt.
2. Let them drain for 30 minutes to reduce extra moisture.
3. Pat the cucumbers very dry with clean paper towels.
4. Whisk sour cream, mayo, vinegar, sugar, dill, and pepper together.
5. Add the cucumbers and sliced red onions to the dressing.
6. Toss the vegetables until they are thoroughly and evenly coated.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before you serve it.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this salad chilled for the most refreshing experience. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or burgers. It is the best companion for a backyard BBQ.

Set the table outside and enjoy the fresh air. This dish is great for outdoor gatherings and potlucks. Your friends will definitely want a second helping.

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge. It will stay fresh for about two days. The flavors actually get better as it sits. Give it a quick stir before serving it again. This is a great make-ahead option for parties.

Tips for Best Results

• Do not skip the draining step for the cucumbers.
• Use English cucumbers to avoid peeling thick, bitter skins.
• Pat the cucumbers very dry to prevent a watery sauce.
• Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for more fruitiness.
• Add extra fresh dill right before serving for a pop.
• Double the batch for a large summer holiday gathering.
• Slice the onions very thin so they are not overpowering.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• In summer, add some halved cherry tomatoes for extra color.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Quick Answers

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes, you can certainly make it the night before. Just be sure to drain the cucumbers very well first. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight in the fridge.

Will my kids actually eat this?

Most kids love the mild, creamy, and slightly sweet dressing. It is a very picky-eater friendly vegetable side dish. You can even let them help with the whisking.

I hope this creamy cucumber salad brings a little cool breeze to your summer table. It is a simple joy that my family loves every year. Enjoy every refreshing bite!

— Lidia

Creamy Cucumber Salad

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings 4 servings

Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnais e
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon sal t
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Place sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt; let drain for 30 minutes to reduce moisture.
• Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels to ensure a creamy consistency.
• In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dill, and black pepper until well combined.
• Add the cucumbers and sliced red onions to the dressing bowl.
• Toss the vegetables until they are thoroughly and evenly coated with the dressing.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.