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Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

4.7 from 26 reviews

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, tangy side dish perfect for warm weather. Thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions are tossed in a luscious mayonnaise-based dressing with apple cider vinegar, dill, and a hint of garlic. It’s quick to prepare, chilled to develop flavors, and ideal alongside grilled meats or as a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 34 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Dressing

  • 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Toss cucumbers and onion with salt: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and thinly sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced sweet onion, and 1 tablespoon of salt. Toss everything together thoroughly to evenly distribute the salt. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 15 to 30 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers and softens the onions.
  2. Drain the cucumber mixture: Transfer the salted cucumber and onion mixture to a colander placed over the sink. Stir occasionally and let the liquid drain for another 15 to 30 minutes until most of the excess water has been removed. This step prevents the salad from becoming watery when dressed.
  3. Prepare the dressing: While the cucumbers drain, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, dried or fresh dill, garlic powder, and ground black pepper in a large bowl until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine and season: Add the drained cucumber and onion mixture to the dressing bowl. Gently stir until all the cucumber slices are thoroughly coated with the creamy dressing. Taste the salad and add kosher salt as needed for seasoning.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with your favorite meals.

Notes

  • For best texture, peel cucumbers before slicing to avoid bitterness.
  • You can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise to reduce calories.
  • Add fresh dill for a brighter flavor if available.
  • If you prefer a tangier salad, increase the apple cider vinegar slightly.
  • This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but is freshest when eaten within 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cucumber salad, cucumber salad recipe, easy cucumber salad, mayonnaise cucumber salad, summer salad, side dish