🥒 Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe – A Cool & Classic Summer Side

Looking for a refreshing and easy side dish to complete your summer meal? Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect answer. This cool, tangy, and creamy salad has been a family favorite for generations. Made with fresh cucumbers and a smooth, seasoned dressing, it’s ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.

In this article, we’ll share the full recipe, preparation tips, nutrition info, and some handy variations to keep it exciting!

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📝 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Dad’s classic cucumber salad:

• 3–4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional for extra zing)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad

Follow these easy steps:

1. Prep the Cucumbers

• Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. For extra crunch, leave the skins on.

• Optionally, sprinkle a little salt over them and let them sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then pat dry with a paper towel.

2. Make the Creamy Dressing

• In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayo, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine & Chill

• Add the cucumbers (and onions, if using) to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.

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🧊 Why This Salad Works

• Refreshing: Perfect for hot days and pairs well with grilled meats.

• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together fast.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes better after chilling.

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🔄 Optional Add-ins & Variations

• Add cherry tomatoes for a juicy twist.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier version.

• Add crushed garlic or mustard for more depth.

• Try English cucumbers for a slightly sweeter taste.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or burgers.

• Add to a picnic basket or potluck table.

• Pairs beautifully with spicy foods for a cooling contrast.

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🧠 Tips for Success

• Slice cucumbers thinly and uniformly for best texture.

• Salt and drain cucumbers if you want to reduce wateriness.

• Use fresh dill whenever possible – it makes a big difference!

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🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 90

• Fat: 7g

• Carbs: 5g

• Protein: 1g

• Fiber: 1g

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📌 Final Thoughts

Dad’s Creamy Cucumber Salad is a nostalgic, satisfying, and simple dish that brings comfort to any table. Whether you’re honoring a family recipe or just discovering it for the first time, this cucumber salad is a timeless classic worth sharing.

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