Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise: Perfect Summer Side

When summer heat calls for something cool and refreshing, this creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise answers beautifully. With crisp cucumber slices bathed in a tangy, creamy dressing, this classic side dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that has been cooling down summer gatherings for generations.

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Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Cucumber Salad

The beauty of this creamy cucumber salad lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a side dish that’s both elegant and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started:

For the Salad Base

2 large English cucumbers (they have fewer seeds and thinner skin)
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (adds color and flavor contrast)
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (the perfect herb companion for cucumbers)
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for added brightness

Fresh ingredients for creamy cucumber salad including English cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill

For the Creamy Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise (provides the creamy base)
1/4 cup sour cream (adds tanginess and lightens the texture)
2 tablespoons white vinegar (for brightness)
1 teaspoon sugar (balances the acidity)
1 clove garlic, minced (optional but adds depth)
1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances all flavors)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Ingredient Tip: English cucumbers work best for this salad as they contain fewer seeds and have a thinner, more tender skin that doesn’t require peeling. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them and removing the seeds for the best texture. A mandoline slicer makes quick work of creating uniform, thin cucumber slices.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise

Creating this refreshing salad is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. Follow these simple steps for cucumber salad perfection:

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Slicing cucumbers thinly with a mandoline slicer for creamy cucumber salad

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. For English cucumbers, you can leave the skin on. Slice the cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). A mandoline slicer works wonderfully for this task, ensuring consistent thickness.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

Salted cucumber slices draining in a colander to remove excess moisture

Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt. Toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This crucial step prevents your salad from becoming watery later.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Creamy mayonnaise-based dressing being mixed in a bowl for cucumber salad

While the cucumbers drain, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Add most of the chopped dill, reserving some for garnish.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry Cucumbers

Rinsing salted cucumber slices under cold water

After 30 minutes, rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This ensures your dressing won’t become diluted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Mixing cucumber slices with red onion and creamy dressing in a large bowl

In a large bowl, combine the dried cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and the creamy dressing. Fold gently to ensure all cucumber slices are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Finished creamy cucumber salad garnished with fresh dill ready to serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, though 2-3 hours is ideal for the flavors to meld. Just before serving, give it a gentle stir and garnish with the reserved fresh dill.

Delicious Variations to Try

While the classic creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is perfect as is, there are several ways to customize it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand:

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek Yogurt: Replace some or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Sweet Onions: If red onions are too strong, use sweet Vidalia onions or shallots instead.
Herbs: Try fresh mint, basil, or chives in place of or alongside the dill.

Various ingredients that can be used as substitutions in creamy cucumber salad

Flavor Enhancements

Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest for brightness.
Dijon Mustard: Incorporate 1 teaspoon for depth and complexity.
Roasted Red Peppers: Dice and add for color and sweet flavor.
Capers: Sprinkle in for a briny pop.
Fresh Radishes: Thinly slice for color and peppery crunch.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle on top for a trendy twist.

“The best cucumber salad adapts to what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, vinegars, or add-ins to make it your own signature dish.”

– Home cooking wisdom

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This versatile creamy cucumber salad works beautifully as a side dish for countless meals. Here are some perfect pairings and serving ideas:

Creamy cucumber salad served alongside grilled chicken and corn on the cob

Perfect Main Dish Pairings

Grilled chicken, steak, or fish
Burgers and hot dogs
BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Fried chicken
Spicy dishes (the coolness balances heat)
Sandwiches and wraps

Serving Occasions

Summer barbecues and picnics
Potluck gatherings
Family dinners
Lunch boxes (pack dressing separately)
Holiday meals
Buffet tables

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a clear glass bowl to showcase layers
Use a slotted spoon for serving to drain excess liquid
Garnish with extra dill sprigs and cracked pepper
Serve on a bed of lettuce for added color
Individual portions in small cups for parties

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but with proper handling, you can prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers:

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare Dressing Early: The creamy dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Slice Cucumbers in Advance: Complete the salting and draining process up to 8 hours before serving, then store the dried cucumber slices separately from the dressing.
Partial Assembly: Mix cucumbers with just half the dressing a few hours ahead, then add remaining dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.

Properly stored creamy cucumber salad in glass containers in a refrigerator

Storage Guidelines

Refrigeration: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will continue to release water, so expect a thinner dressing over time.
Drain Before Serving: If liquid accumulates during storage, drain some off before serving leftovers.
Refresh Leftovers: Add a small amount of fresh mayonnaise and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to revive day-old cucumber salad.
Not Freezer-Friendly: Due to high water content, cucumber salad does not freeze well and will become mushy when thawed.

Food Safety Note: Since this salad contains mayonnaise, never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour in hot weather above 90°F/32°C). Always keep it chilled, especially at outdoor gatherings. Consider placing your serving bowl in a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain safe temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my cucumber salad watery?

Cucumbers naturally contain a high water content that releases when they’re sliced and mixed with salt. To prevent a watery salad:

Don’t skip the salting and draining step
Pat cucumbers thoroughly dry before mixing with dressing
Use English or seedless cucumbers which tend to be less watery
If your salad still becomes watery after refrigeration, simply drain off the excess liquid before serving

Can I make this salad healthier?

Absolutely! Try these healthier modifications:

Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt
Use light sour cream instead of regular
Reduce the amount of dressing overall
Skip the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey
Add more vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients

Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

It depends on the type of cucumber and personal preference:

English/hothouse cucumbers have thin, tender skins that don’t require peeling
Regular garden cucumbers often have thicker, waxed skins that can be bitter – peeling is recommended
For a decorative effect, you can partially peel cucumbers in stripes
If using organic cucumbers, leaving the skin on provides extra nutrients and fiber

How far in advance can I make cucumber salad for a party?

For the best balance of convenience and freshness:

Prepare all components separately up to 24 hours ahead
Combine cucumbers and dressing no more than 3-4 hours before serving
If you must make it further ahead, prepare everything but add only half the dressing initially, then add the remaining dressing just before serving
Keep chilled at all times for food safety and to maintain crispness

Ready to Make Your Own Creamy Cucumber Salad?

This refreshing creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty in every bite. The cool, crisp cucumbers paired with the tangy, creamy dressing create a perfect balance that complements almost any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, contributing to a potluck, or simply looking for a light side to accompany your weeknight dinner, this classic recipe delivers satisfaction with minimal effort.

A beautiful serving of creamy cucumber salad with mayonnaise in an outdoor summer setting

Essential Tools for Perfect Cucumber Salad

Elevate your cucumber salad preparation with these helpful kitchen tools:

Shop Mandoline Slicers
Shop Mixing Bowls

Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adjusting ingredients to suit your taste preferences. The next time you’re looking for a cool, refreshing side dish that comes together quickly, reach for those cucumbers and create this timeless classic. Your taste buds—and dinner guests—will thank you!

Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise: A Refreshing Summer Classic