When the heat cranks up and your appetite cools down, there’s one salad that hits all the right notes — refreshing, creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of crunch.
Say hello to the Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion, a timeless side dish that’s equal parts comfort food and garden-fresh goodness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, meal-prepping for the week, or just need a five-minute fix, this salad is your go-to bowl of cool.
Why You’ll Love It
This salad doesn’t scream for attention — it whispers elegance. The crisp bite of cucumber, the sweet sharpness of red onion, and the aromatic lift of fresh dill come together in a velvety, tangy dressing that clings to every slice. It’s simple, it’s classic, and it always disappears first at the picnic table.
It’s also:
Low-carb
Vegetarian
Gluten-free
100% no-fuss delicious
Ingredients – Fresh, Simple, and Easy to Find
2 large cucumbers (English or Persian preferred), thinly sliced
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (adds richness, but optional)
1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
Cracked black pepper for extra spice
Crumbled feta for a tangy twist
A sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion
1. Prep the Cucumbers
Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. If using garden cucumbers, you may want to peel and deseed them first to reduce bitterness.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water and keeps your salad from getting watery.
2. Slice the Onion
Cut the red onion into very thin slices. For a milder taste, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding.
3. Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust — it should be creamy with a slight tang and that unmistakable dill aroma.
4. Combine & Chill
Toss cucumbers and onions with the dressing until evenly coated. Chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve Cold
Garnish with extra dill or a pinch of pepper, and serve cold. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Make ahead: Best served the day it’s made, but you can prep the dressing and veggies separately and mix right before serving.
Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
The Secret Is in the Simplicity
What makes this salad a staple across kitchens and cultures is its uncomplicated charm. It doesn’t rely on exotic ingredients or long prep times. It’s the kind of dish your grandmother made — and your friends will ask you for the recipe after one bite.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooling down solo, this Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the perfect mix of crisp, creamy, and craveable.
Made this salad?
Tag your post with #CoolCucumberCravings — we want to see those creamy bowls and dill sprinkles in action!
#CreamyCucumberSalad #SummerSides #EasySalads #BBQRecipes #CrispAndCool #GardenFresh #NoCookMeals #FoodieFavorites
Enjoy!
