Introduction
Imagine the taste of summer encapsulated in a dish that’s both rejuvenating and satiating. That’s what you get with this creamy cucumber salad—a recipe perfected over the years and handed down through generations. This dish is a favorite at family gatherings, picnics, and BBQs, particularly recognized for its crisp, refreshing taste paired with a rich, creamy texture. Derived from a classic family recipe, it combines the simple goodness of cucumbers and sweet onions with the zesty flavors of dill and garlic, all brought together by a smooth mayonnaise-based dressing. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish to spice up your summer barbecues or a light, tasty accompaniment for your meals, this creamy cucumber salad is sure to be a delightful addition. Read on to discover just how easy and versatile this dish can be!
The Basics of Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients Needed
To whip up Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad, you’ll need some basic yet fresh ingredients. Gather the following:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
For the dressing:
– 1½ cups mayonnaise, or more to taste
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon white sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
These ingredients blend to create a distinctly creamy, tangy, and refreshing salad.
Total Preparation and Cooking Time
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick yet satisfying dish. The total preparation time is about 2 hours and 10 minutes. However, this includes 10 minutes of active prep time and 2 hours for the ingredients to marinate and develop flavors in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing your cucumbers and peeling them if desired. Slice the cucumbers and the sweet onion thinly to ensure they absorb the dressing evenly. Place the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large mixing bowl, sprinkle with sea salt, and mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for about 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This process will help draw out moisture from the cucumbers, making your salad less watary.
Mixing and Marinating
Once the cucumbers and onions have sat, transfer them to a colander placed over a bowl or in the sink. Let the mixture drain, stirring occasionally, for about 15 to 30 minutes to ensure most of the salt and liquid has been removed. After draining, move the cucumbers and onions back into a clean bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dill weed, garlic powder, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Pour this dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture and stir until everything is well-coated. The creamy dressing should cling to the slices without being too runny; if you find it liquidy, you can add a bit more mayonnaise to thicken it.
Final Preparation Steps
After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate your creamy cucumber salad for about 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish. Once chilled, your salad is ready to serve.
Enjoy your creamy cucumber salad as a refreshing side during warm weather, perfectly accompanying dishes like grilled meats or a simple sandwich. This salad is not only easy to make but also a delightful addition to any summer meal, BBQ, or picnic.
Tips for Serving Creamy Cucumber Salad
Image courtesy: Unsplash
Creamy cucumber salad, with its cool, crisp texture and creamy dressing, is more than just a side dish; it’s a versatile addition to almost any meal, especially during the summer. Here are some tips on how to serve it to enhance your dining experience.
Best Dishes to Pair With
The refreshing tang of cucumber and the creamy texture of the mayonnaise-based dressing make this salad an excellent counterpart to a variety of main dishes. For a harmonious meal, consider pairing it with:
– Grilled meats: The coolness of the salad balances the heat from grilled steak, burgers, or chicken.
– Fish: Serve alongside a delicately seasoned fish like grilled salmon or baked cod to complement the flavors without overpowering them.
– Vegetarian dishes: It works well with grilled vegetable skewers or a hearty vegetable tart.
– Other salads: Combine it with a leafy green salad or a pasta salad for a light, refreshing meal perfect for summer picnics or BBQs.
In addition to these pairings, creamy cucumber salad can be a standalone dish, enjoyed on its own for a quick and light lunch.
How Long Does It Last in the fridge?
To enjoy the best flavor and texture, consume creamy cucumber salad within the first day of making it. However, when stored properly in a sealed container, it can last in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will continue to release moisture, which may thin the dressing over time. For the best results, give the salad a good stir before serving if it has been refrigerated for an extended period.
Community Feedback and Variations
Engaging with fellow food lovers and exploring variations can enrich the experience of making and enjoying creamy cucumber salad. Here’s what some community members have suggested, along with creative ways to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Reviews and Suggestions from Allrecipes Community
Members of the Allrecipes community have tried their hand at making this creamy cucumber salad and have shared their experiences and tweaks. Here’s what they say:
– JenL: Praised the importance of following the initial salting and draining steps and suggested using a bit less mayonnaise while adding some sour cream for extra tanginess. Fresh dill from the garden was recommended to enhance the flavor further.
– svcran: Enthusiastically noted the ease of preparation and customized the recipe by adding more garlic for a stronger flavor profile, vowing to make it a regular dish.
These reviews highlight the salad’s flexibility and the importance of technique in achieving the best results.
Personal Tweaks and Creative Variations
Don’t hesitate to put a personal spin on your creamy cucumber salad. Here are a few ideas:
– Herbs and Spices: Beyond dill, try incorporating fresh basil, mint, or parsley. For a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of paprika can add warmth.
– Dressing Alternatives: Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten it up, or mix in a bit of sour cream for added richness.
– Add-ins: For texture and flavor, add chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes. For a sweet contrast, thinly sliced apples or pears work nicely.
– Vinegar Varieties: Experiment with different types of vinegar like apple cider, red wine, or even a splash of balsamic for a depth of flavor.
These small adjustments can not only customize the flavor but also make the salad cater to dietary preferences and nutritional goals. Whether adhering to a recipe or adapting it to your taste, creamy cucumber salad remains a delightful choice for any table.
Delicious Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer Delight
Course: Lunch, Recipes, Salad, Vegetarian6
servings15
minutes40
minutes90-110
kcalCucumber salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad takes this simple side dish to the next level with a tangy, creamy dressing that pairs perfectly with crisp, fresh cucumbers. This refreshing salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of sour cream, vinegar, and dill creates a dressing that’s both rich and zesty, enhancing the natural flavor of the cucumbers. Whether you’re looking for a light accompaniment to your main meal or a quick snack on a hot day, this creamy cucumber salad is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients
4 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, granulated sugar, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Conclusion
This creamy cucumber salad recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a breeze to prepare. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, it serves as a delightful addition to any summer meal, picnic, or BBQ. Remember, the key to maximizing the flavor of this salad is letting the cucumbers and onions sweat and marry with the dressing as they chill. Whether you’re serving it alongside a grilled main dish or as a refreshing snack on a warm day, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste by adjusting the amount of mayonnaise or adding a dash of your favorite herbs. Enjoy the crisp, creamy texture and the blend of sweet and tangy flavors in Dad’s favorite salad recipe.
