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Refreshing creamy cucumber salad served in a bowl with fresh herbs

Creamy Cucumber Salad

A refreshing salad that combines crisp cucumbers with a tangy, herby dressing, perfect for summer potlucks or a light meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 3 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (for salting cucumbers)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or 3/4 cup mayonnaise for richer flavor)
  • 2 tbsp sour cream (optional, for silkier texture)
  • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar; can sub with fresh lemon juice)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for shine and mouthfeel)
  • 2 tsp honey (or maple syrup, optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or fresh mint/chives for variation)
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced (or 2 tbsp red onion)
  • 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 small diced avocado (adds creaminess and healthy fats)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice cucumbers into 1/8–1/4-inch rounds or ribbons using a mandoline or peeler.
  2. If cucumbers are waxed, peel the skin in stripes to let dressing soak in.
Salt and Drain
  1. Place slices in a colander, sprinkle with 1 tsp kosher salt, toss, and let drain over a bowl for 10 minutes.
  2. This prevents a watery dressing; for very watery cucumbers, gently squeeze with paper towels.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together Greek yogurt, sour cream (if using), vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced shallot, dill, and black pepper until silky.
  2. Warm the dressing slightly by taking it out of the fridge 10 minutes prior to mixing to enhance flavor.
Combine and Rest
  1. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss until coated.
  2. Let sit for 10–20 minutes at room temperature to meld flavors, or chill for up to 2 hours for a cooler salad.
Finish and Serve
  1. Before serving, taste and adjust salt/acid, garnishing with extra dill, feta, or sesame seeds.
  2. For a crunchy contrast, add chopped toasted almonds or pepitas.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For best texture and flavor, add dressing just before serving.