Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a salad that’s refreshingly cool, rich in flavor, and irresistibly creamy, Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is here to win your heart and your taste buds. This classic Southern-inspired dish blends crisp cucumbers and tender sweet onions with a dreamy, tangy dressing that strikes the perfect balance between savory and slightly sweet. It’s one of those recipes that looks simple but delivers layers of flavor, making it a staple at family gatherings, picnics, or any time you want a quick, crowd-pleasing side. Once you try Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe, it’s sure to become your go-to when summer hits or whenever you crave something light, luscious, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this salad are fresh, straightforward ingredients that each bring their unique touch, creating a harmony of flavor and texture. From the crisp bite of the cucumbers to the creamy tang of the mayo-based dressing, every component plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life.
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced: The star player that provides refreshing crunch and a cool base.
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced: Adds subtle sharpness and a touch of sweetness to contrast the cucumbers.
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt: Essential for drawing out moisture and intensifying flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise, or more to taste: Creates the creamy, dreamy texture that wraps each bite in richness.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: Brings brightness and gentle acidity to cut through the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon white sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tang.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed: Infuses an herby, slightly floral note that complements the cucumbers perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a gentle kick to round out the flavor profile.
How to Make Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Salt the Vegetables
Start by mixing the thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions with sea salt in a large bowl. This simple step is crucial because it draws excess water out of the vegetables, ensuring your salad doesn’t turn watery. Let the mixture sit covered at room temperature for 30 minutes to work its magic.
Step 2: Drain the Vegetables
Next, transfer the salted cucumber and onion mixture to a colander set over the sink or a bowl to drain for about 30 minutes. Gently stir occasionally to encourage as much liquid as possible to escape. This keeps your salad crisp and lets the flavors stay concentrated.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
While the veggies drain, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dried dill weed, garlic powder, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This dressing forms the luscious, creamy coating that makes Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe so irresistible. Whisk until your mixture is smooth and perfectly blended.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over your well-drained cucumber and onion mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each slice evenly, making sure that every bite delivers that signature creamy, tangy goodness.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the refreshing quality of the salad, making it simply perfect for warmer days or anytime you want a light, delicious side dish.
How to Serve Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped dill or a few thin slices of radish for a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. Some crushed toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds on top can also give a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork, barbecue ribs, or even fish. It’s equally delightful alongside sandwiches or as part of a picnic spread featuring fresh bread, cold cuts, and summer fruits.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe in individual mason jars layered with some crisp lettuce leaves at the bottom. Or try it scooped onto endive leaves as elegant bite-sized appetizers. The creamy, crunchy salad also works well nestled atop grilled crostini for a fresh, creamy bruschetta-style snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and refresh the texture.
Freezing
This salad isn’t suitable for freezing due to the watery nature of cucumbers and the creamy dressing, which may separate and become grainy when thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary and would take away from its refreshing, crisp qualities. Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of peeled ones?
Absolutely! Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients, but peeling makes the salad a bit creamier and more delicate — it’s really up to your preference.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative, and you’ll still get that creamy texture and tang without compromising flavor.
How long should I salt the vegetables?
About 30 minutes at room temperature is ideal to draw out the water and keep your salad from becoming soggy.
Can I make Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, it tastes better after a few hours in the fridge because the flavors have more time to meld together beautifully.
What vinegar works best for this salad?
Simple white vinegar is classic for this recipe, but you can experiment with apple cider vinegar for a fruitier edge or white wine vinegar for a milder touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe — it’s a comforting combination of crisp, creamy, and tangy that’s so easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, this salad is a reliable, delicious side that feels like a warm hug from the past. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a cherished part of your own family table.
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Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and crisp side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and aromatic spices. This salad is chilled for hours to meld flavors perfectly, making it an ideal accompaniment for warm-weather meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt
Dressing
- 1 1/2 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
Instructions
- Salt the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onion with 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the salt among the vegetables. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture from the cucumbers and onions, helping the salad become crispier.
- Drain the Vegetables: After 30 minutes, transfer the salted cucumber and onion mixture into a colander set over a sink or bowl to catch the liquid. Allow it to drain for about 30 minutes, gently stirring occasionally to encourage the release of excess water. Once drained, move the vegetables into a large clean bowl.
- Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons vinegar, 1 tablespoon white sugar, 1 teaspoon dried dill weed, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the creamy dressing over the drained cucumber and onion mixture. Gently stir to coat all the vegetables evenly with the dressing, ensuring every slice is well covered.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to become thoroughly chilled and refreshing.
Notes
- For best texture, peel cucumbers before slicing.
- You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise to make the dressing creamier or lighter as per taste.
- Use white vinegar for a mild tang; apple cider vinegar can be substituted for a fruitier flavor.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best served fresh.
- Add fresh dill instead of dried for a brighter herb flavor if preferred.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
