This Creamy Cucumber Salad makes every day feel like summer with its crunchy texture and refreshing, light flavor.
Cucumber salad has been around for ages. People in Germany, Hungary, Poland, and other parts of Central and Eastern Europe have been making versions of this creamy dish for generations, each adding their own special twist, such as fresh dill in Poland, paprika in Hungary, or a hint of mustard in Germany. Typically, this salad starts with thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in vinegar, sugar, and dill. The creamy component comes from sour cream or yogurt, giving it that signature tang. It’s the perfect companion to rich dishes like sausages, schnitzels, and roasts—the crisp, cool flavors balance out all the hearty goodness of the main dish.
Cucumbers have been cultivated for over 3,000 years, originally coming from India. Over time, they have traveled the globe and, because of their versatility, found a place in many different cuisines. In this creamy cucumber salad, the combination of white vinegar, sour cream, and a touch of sugar creates a well-balanced flavor that’s sweet, tangy, and refreshing. It’s one of those dishes you just can’t stop eating, and luckily, with all the health benefits of cucumbers, you don’t really have to hold back!
Is Creamy Cucumber Salad Healthy?
This salad is not only tasty, it’s also good for you! Cucumbers are low in calories and incredibly hydrating, making them ideal for hot summer days when you need something light and cooling. Plus, they’re a good source of vitamins and minerals.
The creamy dressing does contain sour cream, so if you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet, you’ll need to substitute it with a plant-based alternative. This salad also works well for a variety of diets, including keto, Whole30 (if you use a dairy-free option), and low-carb. It’s always nice to have a versatile side dish that fits different needs and yet still tastes like comfort food!
What is an English cucumber?
An English cucumber, also referred to as a hothouse or seedless cucumber, is a type of cucumber known for its elongated shape and smooth, dark green exterior. Unlike other cucumbers, English cucumbers are typically cultivated in greenhouses, hence the nickname “hothouse cucumbers.” They are usually about a foot long and have a wonderfully sweet flavor.
One of the reasons they work so well in recipes like creamy cucumber salad is that English cucumbers have thin skin with no bitter taste, unlike regular cucumbers, which have thicker, tougher skin that can be bitter. This also means you don’t have to peel the thin skin of an English cucumber, and I am all for skipping tedious steps. The seeds in English cucumbers are smaller and softer than the seeds in traditional cucumbers, making them very easy to eat.
How to Make Ahead and Store
I love to make this creamy cucumber salad in advance. It’s perfect to have on hand for family get-togethers, friends hanging out on a summer night, or as a late-night crunchy snack. Store your creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freezing isn’t recommended as the cucumbers will become mushy and watery.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine having a summer barbecue where your guests can savor this cool, crisp, and creamy cucumber salad as a side. Envision a spread featuring Grilled Corn, Cajun Burgers, and a generous bowl of cucumber salad in the center, adding an elegant touch and freshness to your gathering. If you have extra cucumbers, try this unique Cucumber Roll for a bright appetizer or side.
During a weekday lunch, this salad can shine on its own. Enjoy a helping of this salad along with Grilled Shrimp or shredded Air-Fryer Chicken for a protein-rich meal. For vegetarians seeking options, adding chickpeas or crumbled feta cheese can add protein. If you enjoy this salad and want to try some similar options, check out this Cucumber And Tomato Salad or Cucumber Avocado Salad.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large English cucumbers thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
Instructions
- Combine sour cream, vinegar, dill, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl to create the dressing.
- Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions to the bowl with the dressing and toss until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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