This creamy cucumber salad with dill is the kind of simple side dish that quietly steals the spotlight.

It’s cool, refreshing, and filled with crisp cucumbers, sweet onions, and a tangy dill-sour cream dressing that comes together in minutes.

Whether you’re serving grilled meats at a summer BBQ or need a quick vegetable dish for dinner, this salad delivers clean, classic flavor with minimal effort.

It’s light, creamy, and full of crunch—just the way a cucumber salad should be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – Just 10 minutes of prep, no cooking required

Cool and refreshing – Perfect for warm days and heavy mains

Lightly creamy – The sour cream dressing is tangy, not heavy

Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – Simple and wholesome

Make-ahead friendly – Great for gatherings and picnics

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Cucumbers – Use 2 English cucumbers or 7–10 small ones for thin, crisp slices

Purple or yellow onion – Thinly sliced for mild bite and color

Fresh or frozen dill – Adds bright, herby flavor

Sour cream – The creamy base of the dressing; reduced fat works too

Lemon juice – Adds brightness and light acidity

Garlic – Just one clove for a subtle savory note

Sea salt and black pepper – To enhance and balance the flavors

Pro Tips Before You Start

No need to peel English cucumbers – Their skin is tender and less bitter

Slice onions paper-thin for best texture

Chill the salad before serving – 30 minutes in the fridge enhances flavor

Add dressing just before serving – Helps keep the cucumbers crisp

Use fresh dill when possible – Frozen works, but fresh gives brighter flavor

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill

Step 1: Make the Dill Dressing

In a small bowl, stir together the following:

½ cup sour cream

½ Tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 garlic clove, pressed or grated

1 Tbsp chopped dill (fresh or frozen)

½ tsp fine sea salt

A pinch of black pepper

Whisk until smooth and set aside.

This dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

If needed, peel the cucumbers (especially if using regular ones with thick skin). Then:

Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons

Thinly slice ½ medium purple or yellow onion

Place the cucumbers and onions into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Dress and Serve

Just before serving:

Pour the dill sour cream dressing over the cucumbers and onions

Toss gently until evenly coated

Serve chilled for best taste and texture.

Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within 2–3 hours.

What to Serve With Creamy Cucumber Salad

This crisp, creamy cucumber salad pairs beautifully with:

Grilled chicken, fish, or pork chops

Burgers or hot dogs at summer cookouts

Stuffed cabbage rolls or schnitzel for Eastern European meals

Lentil stew or hearty soups – balances heavy dishes with freshness

Fried or baked tofu for a vegetarian plate

Variations and Substitutions

Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich twist

Add sliced radishes for a little extra crunch

Try apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice

Use red onion if you prefer a sharper bite

Stir in fresh chives or parsley for extra herbal layers

Storage Tips

Dressed salad – Best enjoyed within 2–3 hours; the cucumbers will release water over time

Undressed base – Store sliced cucumbers and onions separately in the fridge for up to 2 days

Dressing – Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Tip: If storing leftovers, stir before serving and drain off excess liquid if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but store the dressing separately and combine just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Should I peel the cucumbers?
If using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, no need.

If using waxy-skinned regular cucumbers, peeling is recommended.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Fresh or frozen dill is best.

If using dried, reduce the amount to 1 tsp and let it sit in the dressing longer to hydrate.

What kind of sour cream works best?
Full-fat or reduced-fat sour cream both work well.

Avoid fat-free—it can be too watery.

How do I reduce the onion’s sharpness?
Soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before using.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This creamy cucumber salad with dill is the definition of summer simplicity—refreshing, quick, and full of clean flavor.

It’s the kind of dish that balances out grilled mains and brings brightness to your plate.

Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many kitchens.

No fuss, just real, delicious food.