Dad's Refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad: A Summertime Delight
This recipe isn't just another cucumber salad; it's Dad's Creamy Cucumber Salad, a legendary side dish for a reason! It's the epitome of simplicity and refreshing flavor, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light summer lunch.
The magic lies in the perfect harmony between crisp cucumbers and a creamy, flavorful dressing. It delivers a delightful balance of coolness and tang, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Gather the Ingredients for Summer Freshness:
- The Refreshing Crunch (the base of cool and crisp):
- 2 large cucumbers (peeled and thinly sliced) – English or regular cucumbers, both work well.
- 1 sweet onion (thinly sliced) – adds a subtle sweetness and a pleasant bite.
- The Flavor Boosters (creating a flavor symphony):
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (draws out moisture for a crispier salad).
- 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (full-fat for richness, or adjust based on your preference).
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are both good choices).
- 1 tablespoon white sugar (balances the tang of the vinegar).
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed (a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor).
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (a hint of garlic without the chopping).
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (a touch of warmth).
Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Cucumber Perfection:
- Salting the Cucumbers (extracting moisture for crispness): In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and sweet onion. Sprinkle the 1 tablespoon of sea salt over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for 30 minutes. This salting process helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, resulting in a crispier salad that won't get watery.
- Draining the Mixture (removing excess moisture): After 30 minutes, transfer the cucumber mixture to a colander set over a bowl or sink. Let it drain for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures the salad won't be watery and will have a delightful crispness.
- Creating the Creamy Dressing (the flavorful magic): In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dried dill weed, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the flavor bomb for your salad, so take the time to whisk it well.
- Bringing it Together (coating the coolness in flavor): Transfer the drained cucumber mixture to a large bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumbers and onions, and stir gently to coat all the vegetables evenly. Ensure every cucumber slice and onion piece gets a good amount of dressing for maximum flavor and creaminess.
- Chilling for Perfection (letting the flavors meld): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing for a burst of refreshing flavor in every bite.
- Serving Up Summer (enjoying the refreshing goodness): Serve Dad's Creamy Cucumber Salad chilled alongside your favorite grilled dishes, fried chicken, or enjoy it on its own for a light and satisfying lunch. It's a taste of summer on a plate!
Tips and Tricks:
- Craving an extra creamy salad? Simply add an extra ¼ cup of mayonnaise to the dressing for an even richer and creamier experience.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, swap the garlic powder for ½ teaspoon of minced fresh garlic. Fresh garlic adds a delightful bite!
- Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor will continue to develop over time, so don't be afraid to make a big batch and enjoy this delightful summer classic throughout the week!
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