Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe: Refreshing, Crunchy, and Full of Flavor
Crisp, cool, and perfectly creamy, Dad’s creamy cucumber salad Recipe has a way of bringing nostalgia to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that takes you back to backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or a Sunday lunch with loved ones. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity—just fresh cucumbers, onions, and a luscious creamy dressing that balances tang and sweetness. Unlike heavy, over-complicated salads, this recipe highlights the natural crunch and mild flavor of cucumbers while delivering a creamy, dreamy coating that makes it irresistible.
Whether paired with grilled meats, sandwiches, or served as a refreshing side on a hot day, Dad’s creamy cucumber salad is a crowd-pleaser that never fails. It’s easy to prepare, quick to chill, and customizable for every taste, making it a staple in family kitchens.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a simple ingredient list for this classic creamy cucumber salad, with approximate calories per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers, thinly sliced | 4 cups | 60 |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | ½ cup | 30 |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | 240 |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup | 180 |
| White vinegar | 2 tbsp | 5 |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | 50 |
| Dill, fresh, chopped | 2 tbsp | 5 |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. For extra crispness, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid. - Make the dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth. - Combine cucumbers and dressing
Add the cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to ensure all slices are evenly coated. - Chill for flavors to meld
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling enhances the creamy texture and allows the flavors to develop. - Final touch
Give the salad a gentle toss before serving and add extra dill or black pepper for garnish if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make it lighter: Replace half the sour cream with Greek yogurt for tang and fewer calories.
- Add crunch: Thinly sliced radishes or celery can add a refreshing texture.
- Make it tangier: Increase the vinegar slightly for a more zesty flavor.
- Sweeten it up: Add a bit more sugar or a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
- Herb variations: Fresh mint or chives can provide a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
Creamy cucumber salad is refreshing and light, offering a balance of fats and fresh vegetables. Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130–150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6–8 g |
| Protein | 1–2 g |
| Fat | 12–14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4–5 g |
| Fiber | 1–2 g |
| Sugar | 4–6 g |
| Sodium | 150–200 mg |
Highlights:
- Provides vitamin K and vitamin C from fresh cucumbers
- Healthy fats from sour cream and mayonnaise
- Light and refreshing while being satisfying as a side dish
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or burgers
- Pair with sandwiches or wraps for a refreshing lunch
- Include in a summer picnic or potluck spread
- Enjoy as a standalone salad for a light snack or side
Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe: Refreshing, Crunchy, and Full of Flavor
4–6
servings15
minutes30
minutes130-150
kcalIngredients
4 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp white vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the cucumbers and onions
- Wash and thinly slice cucumbers and red onion. For extra crispness, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, let sit 10 minutes, then drain any excess liquid.
- Make the dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine salad and dressing
- Add cucumbers and onions to the dressing. Toss gently to coat all slices evenly.
- Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve
- Toss gently before serving and garnish with extra dill or black pepper if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For a lighter version, replace half or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. To keep cucumbers crisp, sprinkle with salt and drain excess liquid before mixing with the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I make Dad’s creamy cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing it a few hours in advance is actually ideal. Chilling the salad allows the cucumbers to soak in the creamy dressing, making the flavors richer and the texture more refreshing.
2. How long does creamy cucumber salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, the salad stays fresh for 2–3 days. For best texture, avoid adding extra dressing until just before serving if storing for longer.
3. Can I make it lighter?
Absolutely. Substitute half or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and calories while keeping the creamy texture.
4. Can I use different types of cucumbers?
Yes! English cucumbers work best for a milder taste and fewer seeds, but regular slicing cucumbers are also fine. Just peel if desired and remove seeds for a less watery salad.
5. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan mayonnaise or plant-based yogurt to create a creamy, dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Dad’s creamy cucumber salad is a timeless classic that balances crisp vegetables with a creamy, tangy dressing. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for any meal or gathering, it’s a recipe that brings comfort, freshness, and flavor to the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a BBQ, or simply to enjoy on a hot day, this salad is bound to become a favorite.
