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Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe Easy Tangy Sour Cream Dressing

creamy cucumber dill salad - featured image

A refreshing creamy cucumber dill salad with a tangy sour cream dressing that balances crisp cucumbers with a luscious, thick but light coating. Perfect for summer gatherings or a simple, soothing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher salt recommended), adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Transfer to a mixing bowl. If cucumbers are watery, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid.
  2. If using red onion, slice it thinly and add it to the cucumber bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and chives if using. The dressing should be thick but pourable.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion slices. Gently toss to coat every slice without breaking them.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and the cucumbers absorb the tangy dressing.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and taste. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed for brightness.
  7. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature. Let sit out for 5 minutes after refrigeration for best texture and flavor.

Notes

If cucumbers are watery, salt and drain them before mixing to avoid sogginess. Use fresh dill for best flavor. Dressing can be loosened with a teaspoon of cold water or milk if too thick after chilling. Prepare cucumbers and dressing separately if making ahead to keep cucumbers crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cucumber dill salad, sour cream dressing, cucumber salad, summer salad, easy side dish, tangy dressing, fresh dill salad