Recipe for Cucumber Salad With Sour Cream: Cool and Creamy Garden Freshness

Ingredients

• 2 whole English Cucumbers
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 0.25 cup Fresh Dill
• 0.5 whole Red Onion
• 2 tbsp White Vinegar
• 1 tsp Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1 clove Garlic Cloves
• 1 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Vegetables for Maximum Flavor: Thinly slice the 2 whole English Cucumbers unpeeled, as the skin adds a nice texture and color. I use a mandoline for perfectly even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. Place them in a colander and toss with the 1 tsp Kosher Salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which prevents a watery salad. While they drain, thinly slice the 0.5 whole Red Onion and finely chop the 0.25 cup Fresh Dill, removing any tough stems. Mince the 1 clove Garlic Cloves until it's almost paste-like.

2. 2

   Create the Creamy Dressing Base: In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup Sour Cream with the 2 tbsp White Vinegar. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the sour cream, creating that perfect balance this dish is known for. Whisk in the 1 tsp Granulated Sugar until fully dissolved. Add the minced garlic, 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, and the chopped dill. The dill should be finely minced to distribute evenly throughout the dressing. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture looks smooth and creamy.

3. 3

   Combine and Season to Taste: After the cucumbers have drained, gently press them with a clean kitchen towel to remove any remaining moisture. Transfer them to the bowl with the dressing. Add the sliced red onion and fold everything together with a spatula until the vegetables are evenly coated. Here's the thing—taste as you go. The cucumbers may need a bit more salt after draining, so adjust with a pinch if necessary. The dressing should cling lightly to the cucumbers without pooling at the bottom of the bowl.

4. 4

   Finish and Serve at Peak Freshness: Drizzle the 1 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil over the salad and add the 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice. The lemon juice brightens all the flavors, while the olive oil adds a subtle richness that complements the sour cream. Gently fold once more to incorporate. Transfer to a serving dish and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is best enjoyed immediately while the cucumbers are still crisp. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing experience.