Creamy Cucumber and Onion Salad
Refreshing and tangy, this Creamy Cucumber and Onion Salad is a classic side dish that elevates any meal with its cool flavors and creamy texture. Adapted from the Southern Living 1981 Cookbook, this salad is perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or as a light appetizer. The combination of crisp cucumbers and sweet onions, combined with a tangy sour cream dressing, creates a delightful balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Best served chilled, this low-calorie dish is not only delicious but also a nutritious way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together for an even more enjoyable experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumbers
2 medium (thinly sliced)
Kosher salt
2 tablespoons (for salting cucumbers)
Low-fat sour cream
1/2 cup (for dressing)
White vinegar
1 tablespoon (for dressing)
White sugar
1 tablespoon (for dressing)
Onions
2 small (thinly sliced)
Instructions
1
Slice the cucumbers thinly and lay them out in a single layer on a clean surface.
2
Sprinkle the cucumbers generously with kosher salt, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3
Allow the salted cucumbers to rest for 30 minutes; this will draw out excess moisture and enhance the flavor.
4
After 30 minutes, use paper towels to gently blot the cucumbers, removing as much moisture as possible.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat sour cream, white vinegar, and white sugar. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
6
In a large bowl, combine the dried cucumbers and thinly sliced onions, tossing them gently.
7
Pour the sour cream mixture over the cucumber and onion mixture, and stir until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
8
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cucumber and Onion Salad?
It is a refreshing, tangy side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and onions in a creamy sour cream and vinegar dressing.
What type of cucumbers should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for medium cucumbers; however, English cucumbers or standard garden cucumbers both work well.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. You can peel them entirely, leave strips of skin for color, or leave the skin on if it is thin.
What kind of onions are best for this salad?
Small white or yellow onions are traditional, but sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions can also be used.
Why must the cucumbers be salted before mixing?
Salting draws out excess water from the cucumbers, which prevents the dressing from becoming too watery.
How long should I let the salted cucumbers sit?
Allow the cucumbers to rest with the salt for 30 minutes for optimal moisture removal.
Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?
Yes, but use slightly less table salt as its grains are smaller and more concentrated than kosher salt.
Do I need to rinse the cucumbers after salting?
No, simply blot them thoroughly with paper towels to remove the moisture and excess salt.
What is in the dressing for this cucumber salad?
The dressing is a simple blend of low-fat sour cream, white vinegar, and white sugar.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent healthy substitute that maintains the creamy texture.
Can I substitute the white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is there a substitute for the white sugar?
You can use honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute, though it may slightly alter the traditional flavor.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate before serving?
It should chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight is recommended for the best flavor development.
How long will this salad stay fresh in the refrigerator?
It is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days, as the cucumbers will lose their crunch over time.
Can this salad be frozen?
No, freezing is not recommended as the cucumbers will become mushy and the dairy dressing will separate.
Is this recipe low-calorie?
Yes, by using low-fat sour cream and fresh vegetables, this is a relatively low-calorie side dish.
What dishes pair well with Creamy Cucumber and Onion Salad?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, hamburgers, or any BBQ-style meal.
Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh dill, parsley, or chives are popular additions that complement the cucumber and onion.
How should I slice the vegetables?
Both the cucumbers and onions should be sliced very thinly for the best texture and dressing absorption.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a vegan sour cream alternative or a cashew-based cream.
What if I don't have a mandoline for slicing?
A sharp chef's knife works perfectly fine; just take your time to ensure the slices are as thin as possible.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Depending on portion sizes, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish.
Can I use full-fat sour cream?
Yes, full-fat sour cream will make the dressing even richer and creamier.
Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, it is a classic picnic food, but it should be kept in a cooler as it contains dairy.
Why is my salad dressing too thin?
This usually happens if the cucumbers weren't blotted well enough after salting. Try adding a little more sour cream to thicken it.
Does the type of onion change the taste?
Yes, white onions are more pungent, while sweet onions or red onions provide a milder flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Radishes or bell peppers can be added for extra crunch and color.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This specific version is adapted from the Southern Living 1981 Cookbook.
Should I stir the salad while it is chilling?
Yes, stirring occasionally while it refrigerates helps ensure the flavors are distributed evenly.