When you think of summer, what comes to mind? Sun-kissed picnics, laughter, and that oh-so-refreshing creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise that instantly transports you to a world of bliss. The crisp, cool cucumbers mingle with a rich, velvety dressing that dances across your palate like a gentle breeze on a hot day. Trust me; this dish is like wearing sunglasses for your taste buds—everything just feels brighter.

I still remember the first time I made this delightful concoction. It was during a family barbecue, and my Aunt Linda declared herself the “Cucumber Queen.” She strutted around the kitchen, tossing ingredients into a bowl like she was preparing for a culinary Olympics. Little did I know, her secret weapon was this creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise that had everyone buzzing with joy! Now, it’s become my go-to dish for gatherings where I want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with bright flavors
- Its visual appeal shines alongside any main course, making it an instant crowd-pleaser
- The versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences
- Perfect for summer barbecues or as a refreshing side dish at any gathering
I remember one family picnic where I brought this creamy cucumber salad. My cousin Tim took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s high praise coming from him, considering he once tried to microwave ice cream!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; Persian or English varieties work beautifully here.
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Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand—homemade or store-bought—for a rich, creamy base.
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Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances the richness of the mayonnaise perfectly.
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Dill Weed: Fresh dill elevates the flavor profile; dried dill works in a pinch but won’t be as vibrant.
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Garlic Powder: A dash adds depth without overpowering the delicate cucumber flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all those fresh flavors; season to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating culinary adventure as we dive into creating this creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise!
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your essential ingredients on the counter. Make sure you have fresh cucumbers, mayonnaise, sour cream, dill weed, garlic powder, salt, and pepper within reach.
Slice Those Cucumbers: Wash your cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly using either a knife or mandoline. Aim for uniform pieces; they’ll soak up the dressing better and look gorgeous in your bowl.
Mix Your Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth. Add garlic powder and dill weed while mixing—this is where the magic begins! Smell that? Heaven!
Toss Everything Together: Gently fold in your sliced cucumbers into the dressing until they’re evenly coated. The goal here is to ensure every piece gets its fair share of deliciousness!
Season It Right: Sprinkle salt and pepper over your salad to taste. Remember: seasoning can elevate flavors from “meh” to “wow!” Taste test it (you deserve it) and adjust accordingly.
Chill Before Serving: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully—like guests at a summer soirée!
And voila! You’ve mastered the art of making an irresistible creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise that’s sure to win hearts (and stomachs). Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is refreshing and easy to whip up
- The crunch of the cucumbers combined with the luscious dressing creates a delightful experience that’ll wow your guests
- It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish at barbecues
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing and slicing the cucumbers, then mix them with salt to draw out moisture. After 30 minutes, rinse and pat dry before combining them with mayonnaise for a creamy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to amplify the flavor. You can also mix in some diced onions or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose firm cucumbers for better crunch; watery ones can turn your salad soggy
- For extra flavor, let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving
- This allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your dish significantly
Sometimes I think my friends come over just for this creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise! They rave about it, turning every gathering into a mini cucumber party, which always brings me joy.
FAQ
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt adds tanginess while keeping it creamy and healthier.
How long does the creamy cucumber salad stay fresh?
The salad stays fresh for about three days in the fridge if stored properly.
What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe?
English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and minimal seeds, making them perfect!
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise
This delightful creamy cucumber salad combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with a rich, velvety dressing, perfect for summer picnics and barbecues. With its refreshing flavor and easy preparation, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your gatherings. Enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced thinly
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh dill weed, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly; place them in a bowl.
- Mix mayonnaise and sour cream in a separate bowl until smooth, then add dill weed and garlic powder.
- Fold the dressing into the cucumbers until evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (100g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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