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Easy Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad with Red Onion

creamy dill cucumber salad - featured image

This creamy dill cucumber salad with red onion is a refreshing, 10-minute side dish perfect for summer gatherings. Cool, crisp cucumbers are tossed in a tangy dill dressing for a simple yet memorable salad.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 1 medium red onion
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) white vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for salting cucumbers
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. If using regular cucumbers, peel, halve lengthwise, and scoop out seeds before slicing.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss gently and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. While cucumbers rest, slice red onion paper-thin. Place slices in a small bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for 10 minutes to tame sharpness.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, chopped fresh dill, sugar, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. After 15-20 minutes, pour cucumbers into a colander and rinse briefly with cold water. Pat dry gently with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  6. Drain soaked onion slices in a colander and shake off excess water.
  7. In a large serving bowl, combine dried cucumber slices and drained red onion. Pour dressing over top and toss gently until evenly coated.
  8. Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  9. Give the salad a final stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Don’t skip salting the cucumbers—it prevents a watery salad. Soaking red onions in cold water mellows their bite. Fresh dill is essential; dried dill won’t provide the same bright flavor. The salad improves after an hour or two in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, creamy dill salad, summer side dish, easy cucumber recipe, red onion salad, no-cook recipe