Cucumber Salad With Sour Cream and Dill Dressing

 

This Crisp, Cool, and Creamy Cucumber Salad is a warm-weather staple on our table. Inspired by my grandmother, who would snip fresh dill from her garden to add a burst of brightness to any dish, it’s a perfect balance of refreshing and rich. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers a whole lot of flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup reduced-fat sour cream

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish

• Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

• 1 pound Kirby cucumbers (about 4-6), halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lemon juice, and chopped dill until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Combine: Add the thinly sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss until every slice is evenly coated.

3. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld. Give it a gentle stir, garnish with extra dill if desired, and serve chilled.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Pro Tip: Cucumbers release water as they sit. If making ahead, you may want to drain off any excess liquid from the bottom of the bowl just before serving.

Delicious Variations

• Add Crunch & Color: Toss in a handful of thinly sliced red onion or radishes.

• Boost the Protein: Substitute the sour cream with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed version.

• Add a Zesty Kick: Stir one small clove of finely grated garlic into the dressing.

• Traditional Twist: Replace the lemon juice with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a classic Eastern European flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile salad complements a wide range of dishes:

• From the Grill: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, salmon, burgers, or steaks.

• Summer Feasts: An essential part of a picnic, potluck, or barbecue spread.

• Hearty Mains: Pairs wonderfully with rich dishes like meatloaf, pulled pork, or quiche.