When you need something light, crisp, and refreshing, Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the perfect go-to. Thinly sliced cucumbers stay crunchy, red onion adds a sharp bite, and the creamy dill dressing brings everything together with a tangy, herby finish.
Unlike store-bought deli salads, this homemade version tastes fresher and lets you control the creaminess and acidity. It’s ideal for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want an easy side that pairs with almost everything.
Ingredients
Serves 6
For the Salad
- 3 large cucumbers (about 1 1/2 lb / 680g), thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon salt (for draining cucumbers)
For the Creamy Dill Dressing
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, to balance)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional add-ins:
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard (for extra tang)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Drain/chill time: 20–30 minutes
- Total time: About 35–45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Slice and Salt the Cucumbers
Slice cucumbers thinly and place in a colander. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt and toss gently.
Let sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess water (this keeps the salad creamy, not watery).
Step 2: Rinse and Dry
Rinse cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice/vinegar, dill, sugar/honey (if using), garlic powder, pepper, and salt to taste.
Step 4: Combine
Add cucumbers and red onion to a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Stir once before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or fish.
- Pair with sandwiches, wraps, or picnic plates.
- Add to a potluck table next to potato salad and coleslaw.
- Top with extra fresh dill and cracked pepper for a pretty finish.
- For a heartier side, add sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (about 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 8 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 220 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Cucumbers are hydrating and low-calorie, making this a light side dish.
- Dill adds flavor without extra calories and pairs beautifully with tangy dairy.
- Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for more protein and a lighter dressing.
Tips for the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad
- Don’t skip salting and draining—this prevents watery dressing.
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and extra crunch.
- Slice thinly for the best texture and quick flavor absorption.
- Chill before serving so the flavors blend and taste brighter.
- Add red onion gradually if you prefer a milder onion flavor.
Variations to Try
- German-Style: Use vinegar + a touch more sugar for a tangier bite.
- Extra Crunch: Add sliced radishes or diced celery.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Creamy Avocado: Blend a bit of avocado into the dressing for extra richness.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo.
This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the perfect refreshing side dish—cool, crunchy, tangy, and creamy all at once. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and fits everything from summer BBQs to weeknight dinners.
Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this recipe guarantees a fresh, creamy bite every time.
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