Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise Recipe | Easy and Refreshing Side Dish

Creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is a refreshing dish that blends crisp, cool cucumbers with a rich and tangy dressing. Its simplicity makes it a favorite for summer gatherings, barbecues, and weeknight dinners alike.

Every bite offers a perfect balance of textures, from the slight crunch of freshly sliced cucumbers to the velvety smoothness of the mayonnaise-based dressing. While the ingredients are straightforward, the flavor profile can be surprisingly complex. A touch of acidity, a hint of sweetness, and a sprinkle of herbs elevate this classic salad into something truly memorable.

Ingredients Needed

A well-balanced creamy cucumber salad combines fresh vegetables, a creamy dressing, and seasonings. The ingredients are minimal yet flavorful. Below is a table summarizing the ingredients and their approximate calorie content per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories per Serving
Cucumber	2 medium	30
Mayonnaise	½ cup	720
Sour cream	¼ cup	120
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	4
Fresh dill	2 tablespoons	2
Garlic	1 clove, minced	4
Salt	½ teaspoon	0
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon	1
Sugar	1 teaspoon	16

The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a creamy texture that coats every slice of cucumber. Fresh dill provides an herbal aroma while garlic adds subtle pungency. A touch of sugar balances the tanginess of lemon juice and mayonnaise, creating a harmonious flavor.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Creating creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise requires careful attention to ensure the cucumbers remain crisp and the dressing stays flavorful.

1. Prepare the cucumbers
   Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Peel them if the skin is thick or waxed. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Thin slices allow the dressing to coat each piece evenly.For more delicious ideas, don’t miss Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Vinegar which pairs perfectly with this recipe.
2. Salt the cucumbers
   Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of salt. Toss gently and let them rest for 15 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture, keeping the salad from becoming watery. After resting, drain any liquid that has accumulated.
3. Prepare the dressing
   In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, sugar, black pepper, and chopped fresh dill. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings if needed.
4. Combine salad and dressing
   Add the drained cucumber slices to the dressing. Toss gently until every slice is coated evenly. Avoid overmixing to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.
5. Chill before serving
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the refreshing taste of the salad.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Creamy cucumber salad is highly adaptable. Several modifications can enhance or change the flavor profile:

• Add red onions: Thinly sliced red onions provide a mild pungency and vibrant color. Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness before mixing with cucumbers.
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Parsley, chives, or tarragon can complement or substitute dill for different flavor notes.
• Introduce crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts add texture and a nutty taste.
• Experiment with acidity: Swap lemon juice for white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to vary tanginess.
• Add spice: A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick.
• Make it lighter: Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier, lower-calorie version without sacrificing creaminess.

Customizing the salad allows you to tailor it to different occasions. For summer picnics, lighter versions with yogurt work perfectly, while richer versions with full mayonnaise shine during holiday meals.

Nutritional Information

Creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is flavorful, but it is also important to understand its nutritional profile. Here is an estimate per serving, assuming four servings per recipe:

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them ideal for hydration and light meals. The mayonnaise contributes most of the fat content, so adjusting the amount or replacing part with yogurt can lower calories. Herbs and lemon juice add flavor without increasing caloric load.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy cucumber salad pairs well with many dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, baked fish, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also complements sandwiches and wraps, adding freshness and a creamy contrast. For casual gatherings, present it in a glass bowl with sprigs of dill on top to enhance visual appeal.

Seasonal variations make the salad even more versatile. Adding cherry tomatoes in summer or finely chopped radishes in spring introduces color and new flavor dimensions. The salad also works as a side in picnic baskets, potlucks, and holiday dinners due to its simplicity and broad appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cucumbers may release extra moisture, so drain excess liquid before serving.

What type of mayonnaise works best?
Full-fat mayonnaise gives the creamiest texture, but light or vegan mayonnaise can also be used. Adjust seasonings to compensate for differences in tanginess.

Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers?
Absolutely. English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin, resulting in a slightly milder flavor and smoother texture.

Is it possible to make it dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayonnaise. The texture and flavor will remain creamy and satisfying.

How long does it stay fresh?
The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days. Longer storage may cause cucumbers to become soft and watery.

Conclusion

Creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is more than a simple side dish. It is a refreshing, versatile, and satisfying addition to any meal. Its combination of crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and fragrant herbs creates a flavor that is both comforting and bright. The recipe is easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and steps, yet it delivers maximum taste.