There’s something endlessly satisfying about a dish that’s as nourishing as it is refreshing. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this cucumber salad recipe—a crisp, hydrating side that’s as light on calories as it is bold in flavor.
I first fell in love with this salad during a particularly hot summer, when I craved something cooling yet packed with zesty goodness. With every bite, the crunch of fresh cucumbers paired with a tangy, herb-infused dressing became my go-to escape from the heat.
This recipe shines for its simplicity and versatility. It comes together in minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy days. Plus, cucumbers are a hydration powerhouse, with over 95% water content, perfect for staying cool and refreshed.
The balance of textures and flavors—from the juicy cucumbers to the delicate sweetness of red onions and the brightness of freshly chopped dill—is nothing short of perfection. Pair this with Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta or keep it low-carb with Keto Bang Bang Shrimp for a complete, flavor-packed meal.
Cucumber salad has been trending lately for a good reason: it fits seamlessly into so many lifestyles, whether you’re watching your carbs, embracing clean eating, or just looking for a quick, vibrant dish to elevate your meals.
This one’s a keeper.
Perfect for Summer Picnics!
- A quick crowd-pleaser: Everyone raves about how fresh and flavorful it is, even at potlucks.
- Effortless to customize: Add a handful of feta or swap dill for mint for a fun twist.
- Light and guilt-free: Perfect when you want something healthy yet satisfying.
- A meal prep hero: It holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for weekday lunches.
- Stays fresh for hours: Even after sitting out for a while, this salad maintains its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp fresh or frozen dill, chopped
- ½ tsp fine sea salt and pinch of black pepper, or to taste
- ½ cup sour cream, reduced fat works
- ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice, from 1/2 small lemon
- ½ medium purple or yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, pressed or grated
- 1½ lbs cucumbers, 2 english cucumbers or 7-10 small ones
Instructions
- Mix sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Stir well and set aside.
- Peel the cucumbers if needed, then slice them into thin rounds or half-moons for larger cucumbers.
- Thinly slice the onion.
- Add it to a large mixing bowl along with the cucumbers.
- Just before serving, drizzle the prepared sauce over the cucumber and onion mixture.
- Gently toss everything until the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra dill if desired.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to keep it fresh after adding the sauce.
Notes
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a more delicate texture.
Nutrition | Value |
Calories | 58kcal |
Carbohydrates | 5g |
Fibre | 1g |
Fat | 3g |
Protein | 2g |
Cholesterol | 10g |
Variations To Help You Customise Your Dish!
- Herb Twist: Swap dill for fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro to create a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for some heat.
- Creamy Upgrade: Mix in a spoonful of mayonnaise or cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Tangy Addition: Replace lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a sharper tang.
- Crunch Factor: Add thinly sliced radishes, celery, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.