The Perfect Creamy Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing and Easy Recipe

This refreshing and healthy Creamy Cucumber Salad is an ideal accompaniment to almost any summer dish, providing a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture. The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the creamy dressing creates a perfect balance that can elevate a variety of meals. Not only does this salad offer a burst of freshness, but it also brings a cooling element that is particularly welcome during the warm summer months.

One of the best aspects of this salad is that it's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal preparation time. You likely already have all the necessary ingredients in your kitchen, making it a convenient option for both spontaneous gatherings and planned dinners. The primary ingredient, cucumbers, are usually available in abundance during the summer season, and their high water content makes them an excellent choice for hydration.

To prepare this delightful dish, begin by selecting fresh, firm cucumbers. You can choose between English cucumbers, which are long and seedless, or regular garden cucumbers, which have a slightly thicker skin and more seeds. After washing the cucumbers thoroughly, slice them thinly into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference for presentation. Next, thinly slice 1/2 a medium sweet onion.

Next, the creamy dressing can be made using a combination of ingredients that you likely have on hand. A base of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a rich creaminess, while a splash of vinegar or lemon juice introduces a tangy brightness that complements the cucumbers beautifully.

Once the cucumbers are combined with the dressing, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This resting time not only enhances the flavors but also allows the cucumbers to absorb the creamy dressing, making each bite even more delicious.

Ingredients for the Dressing

1 tablespoon sour cream

3 tablespoons mayo (I use avocado mayo but any kind will do)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon Himalayan or sea salt

Ingredients for the Salad

1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced (English cucumbers work well here but any kind will do)

½ medium sweet onion, thinly sliced (red onion works well here too)

DIRECTIONS

In a jar or small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, olive oil, sugar, vinegar, and salt. (It is important to taste the dressing before pouring it on to the cucumbers. I normally take a piece of sliced cucumber and dip it into the dressing to taste it. At this point, you may want to add a bit more vinegar, salt or sugar. This dressing is meant to be a bit tangy and not overly sweet).

In a separate medium mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers and onions.

Pour the dressing over top and mix together.

You can either serve it right away or chill for about 30 minutes before serving.

It's delicious the next day too.

Chef's Note:

1. You want this dressing thick as it will thin quite a bit when added to the cucumbers.

2. If you want a thicker dressing on the salad, remove the excess water from the cucumbers. To remove excess water from cucumbers, the most common and effective method is to salt them and then drain them in a colander.

   Here's a more detailed breakdown:

   Salting: Sprinkle cucumber slices or pieces with salt, then let them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes to an hour. The salt draws out the excess moisture.

   Draining: After the salting period, transfer the cucumbers to a colander set over a bowl or sink to catch the released liquid.

   Optional: Squeezing: For even drier cucumbers, you can wrap them in paper towels and squeeze out the remaining moisture.

   Rinsing (Optional):

   If you want to remove the saltiness, rinse the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water after draining.

   
   

This Creamy Cucumber Salad is versatile and can be served alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a larger picnic spread. Its light and refreshing nature makes it a perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or any outdoor gathering. It is a vibrant and healthy addition to your summer meals that is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether you are hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick and nutritious side, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy, making it a staple for the season.