15 Minute Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo Perfect Summer Side
Nothing beats the refreshing crunch of a perfectly dressed cucumber salad on a warm day! This creamy cucumber salad with mayo transforms humble garden cucumbers into an irresistible side dish that’s both cooling and satisfying. Did you know that cucumbers are 96% water, making them nature’s perfect hydrating snack?
This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking whatsoever. It’s the ideal complement to grilled meats, barbecue spreads, or enjoyed solo as a light lunch. Much like our popular potato salad recipe, this creamy cucumber creation will become your go-to summer staple!
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What is Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo?
Ever wonder why something so simple sounds so fancy? This creamy cucumber salad with mayo is essentially cucumbers dressed up in their Sunday best! It’s what happens when garden-fresh cucumbers meet rich, tangy mayonnaise in perfect harmony.
Some folks call it “cucumber slaw” or “creamy cukes,” but we prefer the straightforward approach. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this recipe certainly paves that delicious path! Ready to turn ordinary cucumbers into something extraordinary?
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo
The Perfect Summer Side Dish
This creamy cucumber salad with mayo delivers that perfect balance of cool, crisp texture with rich, tangy flavor. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the smooth creaminess of well-seasoned mayonnaise. The natural sweetness of fresh cucumbers shines through while the mayo adds just enough richness to make it feel indulgent.
Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Making this salad at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay for pre-made versions at the deli counter. With just a few pantry staples and fresh cucumbers, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. It’s similar to our beloved coleslaw recipe in terms of affordability and crowd-pleasing potential.
Customizable and Versatile
The beauty lies in the simple base that welcomes endless variations. Add fresh dill for an herby twist, sprinkle in some red onion for bite, or toss in cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. The creamy mayo dressing holds everything together perfectly while allowing each ingredient to shine.
Ready to whip up this crowd-pleasing side dish that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe?
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo
Quick Overview
This creamy cucumber salad with mayo is incredibly simple to prepare and requires zero cooking skills. The secret lies in properly preparing the cucumbers to avoid a watery mess.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
The key steps involve:
- Slicing cucumbers uniformly for consistent texture
- Salt-draining to remove excess moisture
- Creating the perfect creamy dressing
- Combining everything for maximum flavor
Key Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo
For the Salad:
- 4 large English cucumbers (about 3 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch thick rounds. For extra visual appeal, you can peel alternating strips of skin, creating a striped pattern.
Step 2: Salt and Drain Place the sliced cucumbers in a large colander and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt. Toss to coat all pieces. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This crucial step prevents a watery salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Add celery seed, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir in fresh dill and chives. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry After the cucumbers have drained, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This step is essential for proper texture.
Step 5: Combine and Chill Add the dried cucumbers and sliced onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Final Touch Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning adjustments. Add more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs as desired. Serve chilled for best results.
What to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo With
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Proteins: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, burgers, steaks, or fish. The cool, creamy texture provides a refreshing contrast to hot, smoky flavors.
Barbecue Spread: An essential addition to any BBQ table. Serves alongside pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, or brisket for a cooling element.
Picnic Foods: Ideal for potluck gatherings with fried chicken, deviled eggs, and potato salad. The make-ahead nature makes it perfect for outdoor dining.
International Cuisines: Complements German schnitzel, Polish kielbasa, or Middle Eastern grilled meats beautifully
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo
Choose the Right Cucumbers
English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. If using regular cucumbers, peel and seed them for the best texture. Avoid overripe cucumbers that feel soft or have yellow spots.
Don’t Skip the Salting Step
This crucial step removes excess water that would otherwise dilute your dressing. Be patient and let the salt work its magic for the full 15-20 minutes.
Customize Your Dressing
Start with the base recipe and adjust to taste. Some prefer more vinegar for tang, while others like extra sugar for sweetness. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on preference or availability.
Slice Consistently
Uniform slicing ensures even seasoning distribution and professional presentation. A mandoline makes this task easier but isn’t essential with good knife skills.
Timing Matters
While this salad improves with some chilling time, it’s best consumed within 24 hours for optimal texture and freshness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad will release some liquid over time, which is normal. Simply drain before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: This salad actually benefits from a few hours of chilling time. Prepare up to 1 day ahead for best flavor development.
Freezing: Not recommended as cucumbers don’t freeze well and will become mushy when thawed.
Refreshing Leftovers: If the salad seems watery after storage, drain the excess liquid and add a small amount of fresh mayonnaise to refresh the dressing.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 7mg |
| Sodium | 285mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 1g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes! Substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. The texture will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
How do I keep my cucumber salad from getting watery?
The key is properly salting and draining the cucumbers before adding the dressing. This removes excess moisture that would otherwise dilute your salad.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a vegan mayonnaise substitute, and the salad will be completely dairy-free while maintaining the same great taste.
How long does creamy cucumber salad last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad stays fresh for 2-3 days. However, it’s best consumed within 24 hours for optimal texture.
What other vegetables can I add?
Cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, radishes, or thinly sliced red onion all make excellent additions. Keep the cucumber as the star and add other vegetables sparingly.
Can I prepare this salad without onions?
Certainly! The onion is optional and can be omitted or replaced with chopped green onions or chives for a milder flavor.
This creamy cucumber salad with mayo proves that the simplest recipes often deliver the most satisfaction. With its perfect balance of crisp texture and rich flavor, it’s destined to become a regular on your table. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a refreshing side dish, this recipe delivers every time!