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Creamy Dill Cucumber and Onion Salad

creamy dill cucumber and onion salad - featured image

This creamy dill cucumber and onion salad is a quick, refreshing side dish made with crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and a tangy dill dressing. Perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks, it comes together in under 15 minutes and gets even better after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (about 1.5 lbs or 680g)
  • 1 medium sweet onion (Vidalia or Walla Walla), thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120ml)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (60ml)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar (30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for salting cucumbers), plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers: Wash and dry English cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Slice the onion: Cut sweet onion in half through the root end, then slice into thin half-rings. Add to the bowl with cucumbers.
  3. Salt the vegetables: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt over cucumbers and onions. Toss gently with hands. Let sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature until liquid pools at the bottom.
  4. Drain and dry: Transfer salted vegetables to a colander and rinse briefly with cold water. Shake off excess water, then spread on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat dry gently.
  5. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth. Fold in chopped fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Combine everything: Add dried cucumbers and onions to the bowl with dressing. Gently fold with a rubber spatula or large spoon until evenly coated.
  7. Chill (optional but recommended): Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  8. Finish and serve: Give salad a gentle stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra dill if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh dill sprigs.

Notes

Don’t skip salting the cucumbers—it prevents a watery dressing. Slice cucumbers as thin as possible for best texture. The salad improves after resting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Use fresh dill for the best flavor; dried dill is not recommended. Double the batch for gatherings as it disappears quickly. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

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