If you are looking for a refreshing and creamy side dish that delivers a burst of flavor with every bite, this Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Crisp cucumbers meet a tangy, herb-filled dressing rich with sour cream and fresh dill, creating a cool, vibrant salad that’s perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or whenever you crave something light and tasty. It’s simple to make yet utterly satisfying, offering a delightful balance of creamy texture and garden-fresh crunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: cucumbers add freshness and crunch, sour cream lends a velvety creaminess, while dill and vinegar bring brightness and subtle tang. Together, these ingredients make an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures that feel effortlessly elegant.
- 2 large cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: This is the creamy base that makes the salad luscious and rich.
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the creaminess.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill): Dill provides that classic herbal freshness essential to this salad.
- 1/2 tsp sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors and helps draw out moisture from cucumbers.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the dish.
- 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced (optional): For an extra bit of bite and color contrast.
How to Make Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by slicing your cucumbers thinly—this allows every bite to be crisp and refreshing. Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and lightly sprinkle with salt. Letting them sit for about 10 minutes draws out excess moisture, preventing your salad from turning watery and ensuring each bite stays delightfully crunchy.
Step 2: Dry the Cucumbers
Once the cucumbers have released some of their water, gently pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key to maintaining the perfect texture, helping the creamy dressing cling to the cucumber slices without diluting the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together sour cream, white vinegar (or lemon juice), chopped dill, sugar, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens—the creamy base meets tangy, sweet, and herbal notes to create a beautifully balanced dressing.
Step 4: Combine Cucumbers and Dressing
Add the cucumbers to the dressing bowl. If you’re using red onion, toss it in now to add a subtle sharpness and vibrant color. Gently toss everything together until every slice is coated in the sour cream goodness.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, intensifying the refreshing taste that makes this Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a few fresh dill sprigs on top for a lovely visual touch and an extra burst of herby aroma. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a dusting of paprika can also add an inviting pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad makes an excellent companion for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork. It also pairs beautifully with barbecue dishes, sandwiches, or as a cool contrast to spicy foods. Think of it as the perfect light and creamy pickle moment on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out cucumber halves or individual small cups for parties. You can also layer it in a glass jar with other summer salad ingredients, making it a vibrant and portable option for picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours, as the cucumbers begin to soften over time, but the flavors will still be lovely and fresh.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because cucumbers have a high water content that becomes mushy upon thawing, and the sour cream dressing can separate, altering the texture and flavor.
Reheating
This salad is served cold, so reheating is not suitable. For the best experience, always enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want a lighter, tangier version. It keeps the creaminess while reducing the richness a bit, making the salad just as delicious.
Do I have to soak the cucumbers with salt?
Soaking the cucumbers with salt helps draw out excess water, which prevents the salad from becoming too watery. It also improves the texture and concentrates the cucumber’s flavor, so it’s a worthwhile step.
Can I make this salad vegan?
You can swap the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Fresh dill, cucumbers, and vinegar keep the flavors fresh, so it’s easy to adapt while maintaining the salad’s spirit.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
This salad tastes best the day it’s made, but you can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Beyond that, the cucumbers start to lose their crunch, and the dressing may become watery.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
Feel free to add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a different herbal note. A pinch of garlic powder or some thinly sliced radishes can add a new layer of flavor and texture without overpowering the salad’s classics.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s simple, fresh, and endlessly versatile. It’s one of those dishes that feels both timeless and like a little summertime celebration on your plate. Whether you’re having a casual meal or hosting a crowd, this salad offers a perfect balance of creaminess and crunch that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy every refreshing bite!
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Sour Cream Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A cool, creamy sour cream cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, fresh dill, and a lightly tangy dressing. This classic American side dish is refreshing and simple, perfect for summer meals, picnics, or as an accompaniment to grilled meats.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Salt the Cucumbers: Place sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which prevents the salad from becoming watery.
- Dry the Cucumbers: Gently pat the salted cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove the released water before mixing.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, white vinegar or lemon juice, chopped fresh dill (or dried dill), sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cucumbers and red onion slices (if using) into the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all ingredients together until the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled for the best taste.
Notes
- Salting cucumbers helps reduce water content and keeps the salad from becoming watery.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
