Dessert

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

ByAiden Wells November 28, 2025November 28, 2025

Introduction

Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want a light, flavorful salad. Made with crunchy cucumbers and a zesty yogurt dressing, it comes together quickly and easily.

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy salad. The salad has a thick white yogurt or cream base mixed with thin slices of light green cucumber and small bits of fresh green dill herbs. There are also thin slices of pale purple onion scattered through the mix. A wooden spoon with a smooth brown texture scoops up some of the salad from the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the colors are soft and fresh, highlighting the creamy texture and vibrant vegetables. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers
Kosher salt
3/4 cup whole milk Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (stems removed, plus more for garnish)
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Black pepper
1/2 medium red onion (thinly sliced into half moons)

Instructions

Step 1: Peel and slice the cucumbers. Partially peel them to leave stripes. Slice each cucumber in half lengthwise, then use a metal spoon to scrape out and discard the seeds. Cut the cucumbers crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Step 2: Salt the cucumbers by placing the slices in a large colander. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt, toss well, and set aside in a clean sink for 20 to 30 minutes to drain excess liquid.
Step 3: Prepare the dressing by whisking together the Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon zest and juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: After draining, pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels. Add the cucumbers and thinly sliced red onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Garnish the salad with additional fresh dill and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use seedless cucumbers or remove seeds thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Swap red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder tang.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Use fresh garlic minced in place of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.

Storage

Store the creamy cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release more liquid over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be served cold straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy white cucumber salad mixed with thin green cucumber pieces, light purple onion slices, and small green dill leaves, creating a textured, fresh look. Two wooden salad forks rest inside the bowl at a slight angle, their warm brown tones contrasting with the creamy salad. Next to the bowl, a small white dish holds extra fresh dill, and a teal cloth is casually placed on the right side atop a white marbled surface. The setting is bright and clean, showing a simple and fresh food presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, regular yogurt can be used, but the dressing will be thinner and less creamy. Straining the yogurt beforehand can help achieve a thicker consistency similar to Greek yogurt.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Salting the cucumbers and letting them drain helps draw out excess moisture. Be sure to pat the cucumbers dry thoroughly before mixing with the dressing to keep the salad crisp.