When the temperature rises and dinner plans start with “something light,” this Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the answer every time. It’s the dish I crave when it’s too hot to cook — cool, crisp, tangy, and creamy in all the right ways.
This salad is a Southern summer staple — the kind of recipe that reminds me of porch lunches, clinking iced tea glasses, and that first refreshing bite of something perfectly chilled. It’s simple to make, easy to love, and absolutely timeless.
Overview of the Recipe
If you’ve never made a creamy cucumber salad before, get ready for your new favorite warm-weather side. This dish balances crisp cucumbers, sweet red onion, and fresh dill in a tangy sour cream dressing that clings to every slice.
It’s perfect alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, baked salmon, or just about anything that benefits from a little cool, creamy contrast. And the best part? You can make it in under ten minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥒 Crisp & Refreshing: Cool cucumbers and red onions make every bite bright and lively.
- 🌿 Herby & Fragrant: Fresh dill adds that irresistible garden-fresh flavor.
- 🥣 Creamy but Light: Sour cream (or Greek yogurt!) keeps it tangy, not heavy.
- ✅ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: A healthy side that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- 🧄 Quick & Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or weeknight meals.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the crunch of perfectly chilled cucumber slices coated in a silky, slightly tangy dressing that’s kissed with vinegar and fresh dill. The red onion adds just enough bite to balance the creaminess, and together, they create a refreshing side that feels both nostalgic and modern.
It’s crisp, cool, and just a little bit addictive — the salad that makes you go back for seconds.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
- Keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
- Light, healthy, and crowd-pleasing!
🛒 Ingredients – Fresh, Simple, and Easy to Find
Main Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian preferred)
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for added richness)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- A sprinkle of sugar, for a touch of sweetness
- Cracked black pepper, for extra zip
- Crumbled feta, for tang and texture
🥣 How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion. If your cucumbers have thick skin, you can peel them — or leave the skin on for color and crunch.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Step 3: Combine & Chill
Add the sliced cucumbers and onions to the dressing and toss gently to coat. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
That’s it — no cooking, no fuss. Just creamy, crisp perfection!
🍽️ What to Serve With This Salad
This salad plays well with almost any main dish! Try it with:
- Grilled steak, chicken, or pork chops
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches
- Salmon, shrimp, or any summer seafood
- Burgers and hot dogs for easy backyard dinners
It also shines on a picnic table next to potato salad, coleslaw, or deviled eggs.
💡 Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad
- Salt the cucumbers before mixing (let them sit 10 minutes, then pat dry) if you want to reduce excess water.
- Use fresh dill whenever possible — it adds incredible flavor.
- For extra creaminess, increase sour cream slightly or add a touch more mayo.
- Chill before serving for that perfect cold crunch.
🧊 Storage Instructions
Store leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Give it a quick stir before serving — the dressing may loosen slightly, but it’ll still taste delicious.
(Pro tip: It’s even better the next day!)
📋 General Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually best made a few hours in advance so the flavors can blend.
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Definitely. Greek yogurt gives a light, tangy flavor and a protein boost.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Salt and drain your cucumbers before mixing, or simply serve soon after making.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, chives, or mint add beautiful layers of flavor.
💬 Conclusion
This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the kind of dish that makes summer meals feel effortless. It’s cool, creamy, and so refreshing that one bite instantly brings relief on a hot day.
Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or packing it for a picnic, it’s always the first bowl to disappear — and for good reason. Simple, classic, and unbelievably satisfying!
If you loved this, try next:
- 🥔 Loaded Potato Salad with Bacon and Chives
- 🥗 Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw
- 🍅 Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad
⭐ Join the Fun!
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest — I’d love to see how you make it your own!
🥒 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~110
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
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