Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion: The Cool, Crisp Classic Your Summer Table Needs

 When the heat cranks up and your appetite cools down, there’s one salad that hits all the right notes — refreshing, creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of crunch.

Say hello to the Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion, a timeless side dish that’s equal parts comfort food and garden-fresh goodness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, meal-prepping for the week, or just need a five-minute fix, this salad is your go-to bowl of cool.

🥗 Why You’ll Love It

This salad doesn’t scream for attention — it whispers elegance. The crisp bite of cucumber, the sweet sharpness of red onion, and the aromatic lift of fresh dill come together in a velvety, tangy dressing that clings to every slice. It’s simple, it’s classic, and it always disappears first at the picnic table.

It’s also:

✅ Low-carb

✅ Vegetarian

✅ Gluten-free

✅ 100% no-fuss delicious

🛒 Ingredients – Fresh, Simple, and Easy to Find

2 large cucumbers (English or Persian preferred), thinly sliced

1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced

1/3 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

2 tablespoons mayonnaise (adds richness, but optional)

1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional add-ins:

Cracked black pepper for extra spice

Crumbled feta for a tangy twist

A sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness

👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion

1. Prep the Cucumbers

Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. If using garden cucumbers, you may want to peel and deseed them first to reduce bitterness.

Pro Tip: Sprinkle cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water and keeps your salad from getting watery.

2. Slice the Onion

Cut the red onion into very thin slices. For a milder taste, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding.

3. Mix the Creamy Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust — it should be creamy with a slight tang and that unmistakable dill aroma.

4. Combine & Chill

Toss cucumbers and onions with the dressing until evenly coated. Chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Serve Cold

Garnish with extra dill or a pinch of pepper, and serve cold. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

💡 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Make ahead: Best served the day it's made, but you can prep the dressing and veggies separately and mix right before serving.

Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.

🌿 The Secret Is in the Simplicity

What makes this salad a staple across kitchens and cultures is its uncomplicated charm. It doesn’t rely on exotic ingredients or long prep times. It’s the kind of dish your grandmother made — and your friends will ask you for the recipe after one bite.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooling down solo, this Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is the perfect mix of crisp, creamy, and craveable.