Fresh, cool, creamy, and wonderfully refreshing! This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill and Red Onion is a classic side dish made with crisp cucumbers, tangy creamy dressing, aromatic fresh dill, and thinly sliced red onion. It’s simple to prepare, full of fresh flavor, and perfect for summer meals, barbecues, picnics, or an everyday family dinner.
The secret is a balanced dressing that combines creamy yogurt and mayonnaise with a splash of vinegar for a delicious tang.
Recipe details
15 min
Prep time
20 min
Chilling time
4–6
Servings
Ingredients
English cucumbers
2 large (about 600 g)
Red onion, thinly sliced
½ medium
Fresh dill, finely chopped
2 tbsp
Plain Greek yogurt
½ cup
Mayonnaise
2 tbsp
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
1 tbsp
Lemon juice
1 tsp
Garlic powder
¼ tsp
Salt
¼ tsp, or to taste
Black pepper
¼ tsp
Sugar or honey, optional
½ tsp
Ingredient notes
- Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skins.
- Red onion: Adds a mild sharpness and beautiful color. Soak it in cold water for 5–10 minutes for a gentler flavor.
- Fresh dill: Gives the salad its signature fresh, herby taste. Dried dill can be substituted; use about 2 teaspoons.
- Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy dressing while keeping it lighter than an all-mayonnaise dressing.
- Vinegar and lemon: Balance the creaminess and brighten the cucumber flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Slice the cucumbers
Wash and dry the cucumbers. Slice them into thin, even rounds, approximately ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. Leave the skin on for extra color and crunch, or peel partially if preferred.
Step 2: Prepare the onion
Slice the red onion very thinly and separate the pieces. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Step 3: Make the creamy dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar or honey. Stir in the chopped dill.
Step 4: Combine the salad
Place the cucumber slices and red onion in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over them and toss gently until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and serve
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Sprinkle with extra dill and freshly ground black pepper just before serving.
Nutrition information
Estimated nutrition per serving, assuming 6 servings.
| Nutrient | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 75–100 kcal |
| Protein | 2–4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5–7 g |
| Fat | 5–7 g |
| Fiber | 1–2 g |
| Sugars | 3–5 g |
Values depend on the yogurt, mayonnaise, and optional sweetener used.
Tips for the best creamy cucumber salad
- Keep the cucumbers crisp: Pat them dry after washing and slicing.
- Prevent a watery salad: Lightly salt the cucumber slices, leave them for 10–15 minutes, then drain and pat dry before dressing.
- Slice evenly: Thin, uniform slices absorb the dressing more evenly.
- Use fresh dill: It adds a brighter flavor than dried herbs.
- Don’t overdress: Start with most of the dressing and add more as needed.
- Dress just before serving: For the crunchiest texture, combine the dressing and vegetables shortly before eating.
- Balance the flavor: Add extra vinegar for tang, lemon for freshness, or a pinch of sugar if the dressing tastes too sharp.
Frequently asked questions (Q&A)
Q1. Can I make cucumber salad without mayonnaise?
Yes. Replace the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Q2. Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?
Absolutely. Sour cream makes the salad richer and more traditional in flavor. You can also use a combination of sour cream and yogurt.
Q3. Should I peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. English cucumbers generally have tender skins, so leaving them on adds color, texture, and fiber.
Q4. Can I use dried dill?
Yes. Use about 2 teaspoons of dried dill in place of 2 tablespoons of fresh dill. Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes so the herb can rehydrate.
Q5. How do I stop the salad from becoming watery?
Salt the sliced cucumbers lightly, let them release moisture for 10–15 minutes, drain thoroughly, and then add the dressing. Refrigeration can still draw out some liquid over time.
Q6. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Slice the vegetables and prepare the dressing separately, storing both in the refrigerator. Toss them together shortly before serving for the best crunch.
Q7. How long does it last in the refrigerator?
For the best quality, enjoy it within 1–2 days. Store it covered at 40°F (4°C) or below. The cucumbers will gradually soften and release liquid.
Q8. Is this salad keto-friendly?
It can fit into many lower-carbohydrate meal plans. Use unsweetened yogurt, omit the honey or sugar, and check the nutrition labels of the dressing ingredients.
Q9. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Thinly sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or chopped bell peppers add color and extra crunch. Add watery vegetables close to serving time.
Q10. What can I serve with creamy cucumber salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, roasted potatoes, burgers, sandwiches, or Mediterranean-style meals.
Q11. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use an unsweetened dairy-free yogurt alternative and a dairy-free mayonnaise. The dressing may have a slightly different flavor and consistency.
Q12. Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes. Sunflower seeds or chopped toasted almonds add crunch, although they are not traditional. Add them just before serving and avoid them if anyone eating the salad has a relevant allergy.
Delicious variations
Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad
Use only Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and a little garlic for a lighter dressing with extra tang.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Add halved cherry tomatoes for juicy sweetness and a more colorful summer side dish.
German-Style Creamy Cucumber Salad
Replace the yogurt and mayonnaise with sour cream, add a little extra vinegar, and use a pinch of sugar for a traditional sweet-tangy flavor.
Storage and meal prep
- Refrigerate promptly: Keep the salad covered and chilled.
- Store separately: For advance preparation, keep the sliced vegetables and dressing in separate containers.
- Refresh before serving: If liquid collects, drain a little and gently toss the salad.
- Avoid freezing: Cucumbers become soft and watery after thawing.
Final result: A cool, creamy, refreshing cucumber salad with crisp cucumber slices, sharp red onion, and fragrant dill. It’s an easy, versatile side dish that brings fresh flavor to almost any meal.
