Creamy Eastern European Cucumber & Dill Salad
This refreshing and versatile Eastern European Cucumber Salad is a perfect complement to any grilled meat dish, particularly spicy meatballs. With its crisp texture, vibrant flavors, and creamy dressing, this salad can be tailored to your palate—whether you prefer it sweeter or creamier. The delightful balance of yogurt, vinegar, and fragrant dill creates a unique profile that brightens any meal. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a cool counterpoint on warm summer days or festive gatherings with family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
English cucumber
1 (halved lengthwise and sliced thin)
Medium onion (red or yellow)
1/2-1 (halved and sliced thin)
Garlic clove
1-2 (minced)
Yogurt (or sour cream)
4 tablespoons (none)
Vinegar
1-2 tablespoons (none)
Sunflower oil (or olive oil)
1-2 tablespoons (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Sugar
to taste (none)
Dill
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by halving the English cucumber lengthwise and slice it thinly. If you have a mandolin slicer, it can help achieve uniform thin slices.
2
Next, halve the onion and slice it very thinly as well, aiming for similar thickness to the cucumber.
3
In a separate small bowl, combine the minced garlic, yogurt (or sour cream), vinegar, sunflower oil (or olive oil), salt, pepper, and sugar. Whisk the mixture well until fully blended and creamy.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and onion with the dressing. Toss everything together, ensuring the vegetables are well coated.
5
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed—adding more salt, vinegar, or sugar to suit your flavor preference.
6
If you choose, you can enjoy the salad immediately for a fresher crunch, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to develop the flavors further.
7
Just before serving, gently fold in the chopped dill to preserve its vibrant color and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Eastern European Cucumber & Dill Salad?
It is a refreshing side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and onions tossed in a creamy dressing made from yogurt or sour cream, vinegar, and fresh dill.
What type of cucumber is best for this recipe?
English cucumbers are recommended because they have thin skin and fewer seeds, making them perfect for slicing thin without peeling.
Can I use sour cream instead of yogurt?
Yes, sour cream is a traditional alternative to yogurt and will provide a richer, thicker texture to the salad dressing.
Should I peel the cucumber before slicing?
Peeling is optional. If you use an English cucumber, the skin is tender enough to leave on for added color and nutrition.
What kind of onion should I use?
You can use either a red or yellow medium onion. Red onions offer a milder flavor and a pop of color, while yellow onions provide a more classic savory bite.
Is a mandolin slicer necessary?
While not necessary, a mandolin helps achieve perfectly uniform, paper-thin slices for both the cucumber and the onion.
How do I make the dressing?
Whisk together minced garlic, yogurt (or sour cream), vinegar, sunflower oil (or olive oil), salt, pepper, and sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
Which oil is traditional for this salad?
Sunflower oil is traditional in Eastern European cuisine, but olive oil is a great modern substitute.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the salad?
Yes, you can add more or less sugar to the dressing to suit your personal preference for a sweeter or more savory profile.
How long should I let the salad chill?
Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together, though it can also be served immediately for a fresher crunch.
When should I add the fresh dill?
It is best to fold in the chopped dill just before serving to ensure it retains its vibrant green color and fresh aroma.
What does this salad pair well with?
This salad is a perfect side for grilled meats, especially spicy meatballs, or any hearty roasted dish.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
It is best enjoyed within 24 hours. Over time, the cucumbers will release moisture, which can make the dressing more watery.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but it is best to combine them shortly before serving for the best texture.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the dairy yogurt or sour cream with a plant-based, unsweetened yogurt alternative.
What type of vinegar should I use?
White vinegar provides a clean sharpness, while apple cider vinegar offers a slightly fruitier note. Both work well in this recipe.
How can I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?
To reduce wateriness, you can salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 15 minutes, then drain the excess liquid before adding the dressing.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Fresh dill is highly recommended for the best flavor, but if you must use dried, reduce the amount to about 1-2 tablespoons.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I omit the garlic?
Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the garlic or use a smaller amount.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients: cucumber, onion, garlic, yogurt, vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, sugar, and dill.
Is this salad good for summer gatherings?
Absolutely, its cooling properties make it an ideal choice for warm summer days and outdoor BBQs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as it will destroy the crisp texture of the cucumbers and cause the dressing to separate.
What is the flavor profile of this salad?
It has a balanced profile that is creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and very herbal from the fresh dill.
Can I add other vegetables?
While traditional Eastern European cucumber salad is simple, you could add radishes for extra crunch and color.
Is this salad spicy?
No, it is not spicy. It serves as a cool counterpoint to spicy dishes.
How do I adjust the creaminess?
Simply increase the amount of yogurt or sour cream if you prefer a thicker, more heavily dressed salad.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, it is very quick and easy, taking only a few minutes to slice the vegetables and whisk the dressing.