Creamy Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad

Name: Creamy Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 large cucumbers, halved lengthwise, seeded, and sliced into ¼-inch slices, about 4 cups; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 medium white onion, peeled and thinly sliced, about 1 cup; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup white wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

The Garden & Saucier

Creamy Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad

Print Recipe

The Strategy:

Ensure a perfectly crisp cucumber salad by salting the slices in a colander at least an hour ahead, allowing ample time for excess moisture to gently release. This crucial step prevents a watery dressing while transforming each cucumber slice into a vibrant, crunchy vehicle eager to embrace the rich, tangy sour cream. Serve this refreshing delight immediately after tossing, ensuring guests savor the delightful contrast of textures and flavors on every plate.

Serves: 6 to 8 | Total Time: 20 minutes till it’s ready, plus chill time

Ingredients

4 large cucumbers, halved lengthwise, seeded, and sliced into ¼-inch slices, about 4 cups
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 medium white onion, peeled and thinly sliced, about 1 cup
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Overhead prep shot of cucumbers, a metal colander, kosher salt, sweet white onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, and fresh dill sprigs

Instructions

Dump the cucumber slices into a colander in the sink.
Lightly sprinkle the cucumber with salt. Let sit for 15 to 20 minutes so that the excess moisture is released.
Rinse with cold water and pat dry.
Place the cucumbers and sliced onion into a bowl.
Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the cucumbers and onions. Toss and then chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh dill.

Extreme close-up action shot pouring thick, glossy sour cream and mayonnaise dressing over crisp cucumber slices

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The Heart of the Table

There is a quiet, restorative power in the simple act of preparing a crisp, cool salad to share on a sweltering afternoon. Passing this vibrant, creamy dish across the patio table isn't just about offering nourishment; it's an invitation to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the people sitting beside you. Food is our oldest language for saying, "I care about you, and I am so glad you're here."

An elegant casual outdoor summer dining setting featuring Creamy Cucumber Salad alongside a grilled salmon fillet

Neighborly Grace

THE PRESENTATION: Do not skip the chilling period (Step 5). This salad needs time in the refrigerator for the sharp vinegar and the sweet sugar to fully meld with the rich sour cream. Serve it in a wide, shallow ceramic bowl and heavily garnish with extra fresh dill right before bringing it to the table.
THE POUR: A crisp, heavily iced, tart, and barely-sweet lemonade. The sharp citrus notes will beautifully cut through the rich mayonnaise and sour cream dressing, while enhancing the delicate fresh dill.
THE VIBE: Light, breezy, and effortlessly elegant. This is a classic, vibrant side dish designed for a sophisticated afternoon gathering when the weather is warm and the conversation is lively.

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The Estate Table

Build tonight’s menu around this dish.

✦ Set the Table

Creamy Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad

Creamy Cucumber and Sweet Onion Salad

The full recipe lives in the Vault

The Heart of the Table

Neighborly Grace

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