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Best Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad with Red Onion Recipe

creamy cucumber dill salad with red onion - featured image

This creamy cucumber dill salad with red onion is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for cookouts and potlucks. Simple ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing make it a memorable addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 3 medium Persian cucumbers)
  • 1 medium red onion
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh chives or parsley (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly. If using English cucumbers, leave skin on. Slice about ⅛-inch thick. Place in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, toss gently, and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
  2. While cucumbers rest, slice red onion as thinly as possible into half-rings. For milder flavor, soak slices in ice water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
  4. After 10-15 minutes, pour cucumbers into a colander, rinse briefly with cold water, shake well, and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
  5. Return drained cucumbers to the large bowl. Add sliced red onion and chopped fresh dill. Pour dressing over top and toss gently until evenly coated.
  6. Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours ideal) to let flavors meld. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed. Add extra fresh dill for garnish if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip salting the cucumbers—it prevents a watery salad. Fresh dill is essential; dried dill won’t work as well. The salad improves after a few hours in the fridge. For best results, make 4-6 hours ahead. Serve cold and keep chilled if serving at a party.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber dill salad, creamy cucumber salad, red onion salad, summer side dish, potluck recipe, easy salad