Creamy Cucumber Salad (Simple Summer Favorite!)

There’s something about summer that just tastes like cucumbers. Light, cool, crunchy, and straight from the garden. This creamy cucumber salad is my go-to when the days get hot and the fridge is full of fresh produce. It’s fast, nostalgic, and honestly… it disappears faster than I can make it. If you’re into veggie-packed sides, you’ll also love our broccoli cauliflower salad.

A Creamy Cucumber Salad That Tastes Like Summer

This recipe brings back backyard dinners and Grandma’s big white bowl filled to the brim. It’s that cool, creamy mix of fresh cucumbers, a tangy sour cream dressing, and just enough dill to make it sing. If you’ve got ten minutes, you’ve got time to make this. Whether you’re grilling out, packing a picnic, or just need something chill beside your sandwich—this one’s a keeper.

Where This Recipe Comes From

My Summer Garden Go-To

Every summer, my garden turns into a cucumber jungle. And every summer, I ask myself: what am I supposed to do with all these? That’s how this recipe became a weekly favorite. It’s something I remember eating at every family reunion and church potluck growing up. The kind of dish that’s humble, but perfect. It’s also a great excuse to serve it alongside our peach watermelon salad when fruit is overflowing.

Why It’s on Repeat in My Kitchen

It checks all the boxes: minimal ingredients, crazy fast, and pairs with everything. It cuts through heavier meals with that cool crunch. My kids devour it. My husband sneaks extra spoonfuls straight from the bowl. And honestly? I look forward to leftovers the next day (if we have any). I often pack it up for potlucks right next to a hearty scoop of cowboy caviar salad.

What You’ll Need to Make It

Simple Ingredients with Big Flavor

• Cucumbers – Regular, English, or Persian all work great
• Red onion – For a pop of color and gentle bite
• Sour cream – Use full-fat for richness, or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist
• White vinegar – Adds that perfect little zip
• Fresh dill – Can’t skip this one! (But parsley or mint could pinch hit)
• Sugar, salt & garlic powder – Just a pinch of each to balance things out

Favorite Tools

• A mandoline slicer makes quick work of even slices
• Or just a trusty sharp knife
• Grab a medium mixing bowl and a spoon—done!

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad

Step-by-Step Prep

1. Slice the cucumbers thinly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Thinly slice the red onion. You want them whisper-thin, not overpowering.
3. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, stir together sour cream, vinegar, dill, sugar, salt, and garlic powder.
4. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Chill it. Let it sit at least 30 minutes if you can. Even better after an hour!

Quick Serving Ideas

• Pair with grilled chicken or blackened salmon
• Serve at a BBQ or picnic
• Spoon over toast with a fried egg for a breezy lunch
• Add it to your spread with zucchini carrot muffins for a garden-themed meal

Tips, Swaps & Fresh Twists

• Add halved cherry tomatoes or diced avocado
• Swap in mayo or lemon juice for a different tang
• Fresh parsley, mint, or chives = delicious variety
• Use Greek yogurt to lighten it up
• Throw in leftover salmon for a full meal

FAQs About Creamy Cucumber Salad

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