Creamy cucumber salad turns humble garden cucumbers into a refreshing side dish that combines crisp veggies with a delicious dill dressing. This classic salad comes together in minutes but tastes like something your grandmother would have lovingly prepared, making it perfect for everything from Easter ham to grilled burgers.
This simple make-ahead dish will be your favorite for stress-free entertaining when the weather warms up, and potluck invitations start rolling in. It’s the perfect blend of crisp, fresh cucumbers and a tangy dill dressing that is both light and creamy.
You only need seven basic ingredients and about 15 minutes of prep time to make this refreshing side dish. The straightforward ingredient list means you can throw this together even when you’re short on time or inspiration.
In the next section, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to create this potluck-perfect side dish. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up those garden cucumbers or want a cool, refreshing side dish that pairs with practically everything, this recipe is for you.
Looking for more easy make-ahead salad ideas? Try my recipes for pickle pasta salad, tropical fruit salad, or peach caprese salad.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure policy.
Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
- English Cucumbers: I prefer these over regular cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. Plus, you don’t have to peel them. If you’re using garden cucumbers, you might want to peel them if the skin is thick.
- Red Onion
- Sour Cream
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh Dill: You can use dried dill (about one tablespoon), but fresh is best.
- White Vinegar
- Sugar
- Garlic Powder
- Salt
- Pepper
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad
- Scrub the cucumbers and slice them nice and thin. I aim for about ⅛ inches thick. Use a mandoline slicer if you have one to speed things up. You want them thin enough to soak up the dressing but thick enough to keep their crunch.
- Combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Toss in the cucumber slices and thin-sliced red onions, coating each slice with the creamy dressing.
- Pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Toss it one more time before serving. The cucumbers will release some liquid as they sit.
Serving Ideas
This creamy cucumber salad is one of my go-to side dishes for summer cookouts. It goes well with grilled meats and is also a great recipe to make when your garden is overflowing with cucumbers!
Here are some more serving ideas:
- As a side dish for BBQ meats like grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs.
- Alongside sandwiches for a light lunch.
- At potlucks and picnics (just keep it chilled!).
- With spicy dishes – the cool, creamy sauce helps balance the heat.
If you’re taking this to a potluck, pack it in a container with an ice pack underneath to keep it nice and cold.
If you are looking for an easy makeahead salad to bring to your summer cookouts try this Deviled Egg Dip.
How to Store
This salad is crispy and creamy best when served within a few hours of making it. The textures and flavors are perfect, then, which is why I usually make just enough for one meal
But if you have leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep for 2 days. The cucumbers release water as they sit, making the dressing more liquid. If it gets too watery, drain some of the excess liquid before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- I’ve found that using a mandoline slicer gives you the most consistent, thin slices. If you’re using a knife, try to keep the slices about ⅛ inch thick.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to make it spicy.
- Try fresh mint instead of dill for a different flavor.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Use sweet Vidalia onions instead of red onions for a milder taste.
- If you need to prepare it in advance, try mixing the dressing separately and combining it with the vegetables before serving.
Did You Make This? Leave a Star Rating!
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers
- ⅓ red onion sliced thin
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fresh dill chopped
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash your cucumbers and slice them thinly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.½ cup sour cream, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, ¼ cup fresh dill, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, ½ teaspoon granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper to taste
- Add the cucumbers and onions and toss gently to combine.⅓ red onion, 2 English cucumbers
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- I’ve found that using a mandoline slicer gives you the most consistent, thin slices. If you’re using a knife, try to keep the slices about ⅛ inch thick.
- Try fresh mint instead of dill for a different flavor.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Use sweet Vidalia onions instead of red onions for a milder taste.
- If you need to prepare it in advance, try mixing the dressing separately and combining it with the vegetables before serving.
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition facts are estimates.
I have tried this salad in the past it is very good