Cucumber salad with sour cream is a classic, refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a cool, creamy side. This salad combines crisp cucumbers with a tangy, smooth sour cream dressing, often enhanced with fresh herbs like dill and a touch of vinegar for brightness. It’s easy to make, takes just minutes, and can complement everything from grilled meats to sandwiches or stand alone as a light snack.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful cucumber salad with sour cream at home, step-by-step, with tips to make it extra tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients that form the base of a creamy cucumber salad with sour cream:
– Cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, but regular cucumbers work well too (just peel if the skin is thick or waxy).
– Sour cream: Full-fat sour cream makes the creamiest dressing, but you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions.
– Vinegar: White vinegar is classic for its neutral zing, but apple cider or white wine vinegar can add a milder, sweeter note.
– Fresh dill: Dill and cucumber are a perfect pair, adding a fresh herbal flavor.
– Onion: Red onion or sweet Vidalia onion thinly sliced adds a nice bite and color contrast.
– Sugar: A small amount balances the acidity and sharpness.
– Salt and pepper: To season and bring out the flavors.
– Optional: garlic powder or fresh garlic for extra depth, lemon juice for brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions
– Wash and peel the cucumbers if needed.
– Slice them thinly—paper-thin slices work best to absorb the dressing and keep the salad crisp.
– Thinly slice the onion of your choice.
– To avoid a watery salad, sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Sour Cream Dressing
– In a bowl, combine sour cream with vinegar, chopped fresh dill, a pinch of sugar, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
– Stir well until smooth and creamy.
– Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Combine and Chill
– Add the cucumber and onion slices to the dressing.
– Toss gently to coat every slice with the creamy mixture.
– For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream
– Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill is the classic choice, but parsley or cilantro can be great alternatives if you want a twist.
– Don’t skip the draining: Cucumbers have a lot of water, so salting and draining them prevents your salad from becoming soggy.
– Adjust sweetness and acidity: Depending on your taste, tweak the sugar and vinegar amounts. Some like it tangier, others a bit sweeter.
– Serve chilled: This salad is most refreshing when served cold, making it perfect for summer barbecues or light lunches.
– Add crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts on top before serving.
Variations to Try
– Add yogurt: Mix sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing with a bit of tang.
– Include garlic: Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder adds a nice kick.
– Mix in fresh herbs: Besides dill, try chives, basil, or mint for a different flavor profile.
– Add other veggies: Thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers can add color and crunch.
– Make it vegan: Substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.
Cucumber salad with sour cream is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of freshness and creaminess to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this salad in minutes and enjoy a cool, crisp side that pairs well with almost anything.
Give this recipe a try at your next meal and discover how a humble cucumber can be transformed into a deliciously creamy delight!