Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Creamy Cucumber Salad*! It’s like summer on a plate! The crispness of fresh cucumbers combined with a creamy dressing is just pure bliss. I love serving this salad at barbecues or picnics; it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making every meal feel like a celebration. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up! Just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become your go-to summer side! It’s perfect for those hot days when you want something light yet flavorful.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 cup sour cream, for that luscious creaminess
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, to brighten up the flavors
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped, for a pop of herby goodness
- 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance all those lovely flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, for a little kick
(Tip: Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best flavor and crunch. You can peel them if you prefer a milder taste, but I love leaving the skin on for that vibrant color!)
How to Prepare the Creamy Cucumber Salad
Preparing this *Creamy Cucumber Salad* is as easy as pie! The key is to allow the flavors to mingle while the salad chills, so let’s dive into the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Slice them into thin rounds—this helps them soak up that creamy dressing better!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is well blended and creamy. This is where the magic starts!
- Now, it’s time to introduce the cucumbers to the dressing. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are fully coated. You want every slice to be covered in that delicious dressing!
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial because it allows the cucumbers to absorb all those tasty flavors.
- After chilling, give it a quick stir before serving! This salad is best enjoyed cold, so trust me, the wait is worth it!
And there you have it—simple and straightforward, just like summer should be! Enjoy your salad as a refreshing side dish or even as a light lunch on its own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly refreshing and perfect for those hot summer days.
- Super easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients.
- Rich and creamy, yet light on the palate.
- Healthy and packed with vitamins from fresh cucumbers.
- Pairs wonderfully with grilled dishes, making it a versatile side.
Tips for Success
To really elevate your *Creamy Cucumber Salad*, here are some tips that I swear by! First, always use fresh cucumbers—this makes a world of difference in flavor and crunch. If you find your cucumbers are a bit watery, sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture before mixing them into the dressing. Also, don’t skip the chilling time; it’s essential for allowing those flavors to meld beautifully! Lastly, feel free to play around with herbs—adding a bit of mint or parsley can give it a refreshing twist that’s simply delightful!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for this *Creamy Cucumber Salad*! Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 120 calories. You’ll also get 10g of fat, including 5g of saturated fat, and 2g of protein. Plus, it has 6g of carbohydrates and 1g of fiber. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how light and healthy this refreshing salad can be!
FAQ Section
Can I make the *Creamy Cucumber Salad* ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to develop even more. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that will still give you that creamy texture with a bit of tang. It’s a healthier option too!
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can mix in some chopped red onion or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for an exciting twist. Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can also brighten it up!
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this *Creamy Cucumber Salad* is completely vegetarian, making it a perfect addition to any meat-free meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftover *Creamy Cucumber Salad*, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor. As for reheating, there’s no need; this salad is meant to be served cold, so just give it a gentle stir and enjoy it straight from the fridge! Trust me, it stays deliciously refreshing!
Serving Suggestions
This *Creamy Cucumber Salad* is the perfect companion for all your summer favorites! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, adding a cool and refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside burgers or hot dogs for a classic cookout experience. And if you’re feeling a bit fancy, it’s delightful with a light quiche or as a side to a refreshing summer pasta dish. Trust me, it’ll elevate any meal!
Print
Creamy Cucumber Salad: 5 Steps to Refreshing Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing creamy cucumber salad perfect for summer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers.
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Add cucumbers to the dressing and mix well.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh cucumbers for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Creamy Cucumber Salad, cucumber salad, summer salad