Creamy Old-Fashioned Cucumber Salad with Mayo + Perfect Summer Side

I remember my mom making this cucumber salad when summer rolled around. We’d enjoy it at nearly every picnic, and I could never get enough of the cool, crisp cucumbers and zesty red onions. Now, I whip it up for my own family, and it always brings back those sunny memories.

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The key to this salad is letting it chill for at least 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld. The combination of cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy dressing makes each bite refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients in Creamy Old-Fashioned Cucumber Salad with Mayo

This salad’s simple ingredients come together to create a refreshing side dish for summer. Let’s break down what makes this salad a staple on my table.

• English Cucumbers: These are crisp and less bitter than regular cucumbers. Peel and slice them thin for the best texture.
• Red Onion: Adds a zesty bite that complements the creamy dressing. Slice them thinly to keep the flavor balanced.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds everything together. Use full-fat mayo for the richest flavor.
• White Vinegar: Provides a tangy kick that cuts through the creaminess. It’s essential for balancing flavors.
• Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness rounds out the dressing. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall taste.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the flavors. Adjust to your preference.
• Fresh Dill: This herb brightens the salad and balances the richness of the mayo, adding a fresh touch.

  
  
  
  

How to Make Creamy Old-Fashioned Cucumber Salad

This creamy cucumber salad comes together in about 40 minutes, with just 10 minutes of prep time. It’s a refreshing dish that brings back all those sunny picnic vibes.

1. Prep Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers and pat them dry. Peel them if you’d like, then slice into thin, uniform rounds. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick. They should look crisp and fresh once sliced.

2. Slice Onions: Thinly slice the red onion. You want these slices to be delicate, so they blend well with the cucumbers.

3. Combine Veggies: In a large bowl, add the cucumber slices and red onion. Give them a gentle toss to mix them up. You’ll want to see the colors mingle a bit.

4. Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, granulated sugar, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth. It should have a creamy consistency.

5. Mix Together: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Add the chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill if you prefer) and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

6. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely, and you’ll notice the cucumbers soften slightly.

Enjoy this salad as a side for your next meal or picnic!

Switch It Up: Easy Variations

Life gets busy, and sometimes we need to change things up a bit. Here are a few variations to keep this cucumber salad fresh for my family!

• Cucumber Type Swap: Use regular garden cucumbers instead of English cucumbers. They work just as well and are often easier to find.

• Red Onion Substitute: If you want a milder taste, try green onions or shallots instead of red onion. They add a nice touch without being too strong.

• Mayonnaise Alternative: For a tangier flavor, you can swap mayonnaise with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.

• Dill Variation: If you’re out of fresh dill, dried dill can be used in place of fresh dill if necessary.

Keeping It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let the salad cool completely before sealing it up; this keeps the cucumbers crisp and prevents excess moisture. Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well—once thawed, the cucumbers can become mushy.

When you’re ready to enjoy the salad again, give it a good stir before serving. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of mayonnaise or a drizzle of vinegar to refresh the dressing.

Summer Sides to Brighten Your Meal

This creamy cucumber salad adds a refreshing touch to any plate. Pair it with dishes that complement its cool flavors.

What to Serve Alongside

• Perfect alongside Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: This keeps things simple yet delicious.
• Surprisingly versatile with Smoked Prime Rib Roast: The rich flavors of the roast balance nicely with the lightness of the salad.