Cucumber and Red Onion Salad in a Creamy Dill Dressing
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion
This creamy cucumber salad with dill and red onion is the ultimate summer side—cool, refreshing, and full of bright, fresh flavor. Crunchy cucumbers and thin slices of red onion are tossed in a tangy yogurt and sour cream dressing enhanced with fragrant dill. It’s an ideal chilled companion for grilled entrées, sandwiches, or to enjoy as a light, vibrant salad on its own.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced | 2 |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 1/4 cup |
| Sour cream (or extra yogurt for a lighter option) | 1/4 cup |
| White wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness) | 1 teaspoon |
| Small red onion, thinly sliced and soaked in water for 5 minutes | 1 |
| Fresh dill, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Optional: Crumbled feta or shredded carrots | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers and Onion
Peel the cucumbers and slice them thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife for even slices. Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes to mellow its sharpness. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sour cream (or additional yogurt), vinegar, and honey (if using) until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the sliced cucumbers and drained onion to the bowl of dressing. Stir in the chopped dill, coating everything evenly so the dressing and herbs are well distributed.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (and up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill thoroughly. Before serving, you can top with crumbled feta or shredded carrots for extra color and taste.
Step 5: Serve Cold
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it chilled with grilled foods, sandwiches, picnic plates, or as a cool standalone side.
Tips for the Best Results
- Alternate Peeling: For a prettier look (and extra nutrients), try peeling the cucumbers in alternating stripes.
- Avoid Overdressing: Add dressing gradually—the amount may vary depending on the cucumbers’ size and water content. You want them well coated, not soggy.
- Soak the Onion: This small step makes a big difference. Soaking tames the onion’s bite and brings out a mild, sweet crunch.
- Go Fresh with Dill: Dried dill works in a pinch, but fresh dill brings unmatched aroma and vibrancy that elevates the dish.
