Irresistible Creamy Cucumber Salad for Summer Picnics

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy cucumber salad that can instantly transport you to warm summer picnics or family barbecues. Imagine biting into crisp, refreshing cucumbers bathed in a luscious, tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds and leaves you craving more. This is not just any salad; it’s a delightful combination of freshness and creaminess that’s perfect for any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing lunch options recipe.

I remember the first time I made this creamy cucumber salad for a gathering. My friends were skeptical at first, but after one bite, they were hooked! The laughter and compliments flowed as freely as the dressing. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a fancy dinner party, this dish has become my go-to recipe, much to the delight of everyone who tries it. For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner recipes recipe.

I still chuckle when I think about how my friends kept asking for seconds and thirds that day!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for the best crunch; English cucumbers are my personal favorite for their thin skin.

• Sour Cream: Adds the creaminess; opt for full-fat sour cream for a rich texture.

• Greek Yogurt: A lighter alternative that still provides great creaminess and tangy flavor.

• Dill: Fresh dill sprigs bring a burst of flavor; dried dill works too in a pinch.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

• Garlic Powder: Just a hint adds depth without overpowering the cucumbers’ natural taste.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the lovely flavors in your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your fresh cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for even pieces.

Create the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy with no lumps.

Add Fresh Herbs: Chop fresh dill finely and fold it into the dressing mixture. This adds an aromatic touch that elevates your salad’s flavor profile.

Toss Everything Together: Gently combine your sliced cucumbers with the dressing in a large bowl. Ensure each piece is well-coated without mashing them.

Chill Before Serving: For best results, let your creamy cucumber salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything refreshingly cool.

Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer your salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra dill if desired. Watch as everyone dives in with eager forks!

This creamy cucumber salad is one of those dishes that makes cooking feel effortless while delivering big on flavor. Each bite offers crispness from the cucumbers balanced perfectly with creamy goodness from the dressing—what’s not to love? Enjoy making this dish as much as you enjoy eating it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing cucumbers thinly to enhance their crispness. Mix the dressing while letting the cucumbers sit, allowing them to soak up flavors before serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or add fresh herbs like dill for extra flavor. You can even toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating necessary; this dish is best served cold!

Creating this creamy cucumber salad reminds me of summer picnics with my family, where laughter and good food come together beautifully.

FAQ

What can I substitute for sour cream in creamy cucumber salad?

Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a healthy alternative and adds a nice tang.

How long does creamy cucumber salad last in the refrigerator?

It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to this creamy cucumber salad?

Absolutely! Bell peppers and red onions add color and crunch to enhance the flavor profile.

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Creamy Cucumber Salad

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Creamy cucumber salad is the perfect dish to elevate any meal. This refreshing side features crisp cucumbers enveloped in a luscious dressing made from sour cream and Greek yogurt, enhanced with fresh dill and zesty lemon juice. Ideal for summer barbecues or as a light lunch, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Total Time: 38 minute
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Side
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly with a knife or mandoline.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; whisk until smooth.
3. Mix in chopped dill into the dressing.
4. Toss sliced cucumbers in the dressing until well coated.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Allow cucumbers to sit with salt for 10 minutes before mixing to reduce excess moisture.