Enjoy the ultimate taste of summer with this refreshing Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad! Featuring crisp sliced cucumbers, juicy ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion tossed in a velvety, tangy dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and fresh dill, this cool side dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Chill Time | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Total Time | About 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 to 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Very Easy |
| Cuisine | Classic American Summer Salad |
Why This Recipe Works
Whisking sour cream and mayonnaise together with a hint of apple cider vinegar and sugar creates a perfectly balanced tangy-sweet dressing that clings to the fresh, crunchy vegetables. Chilling the salad briefly allows the flavors to marry while keeping the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 2 large | Sliced |
| Ripe tomatoes | 3 ripe | Cut into wedges or chunks |
| Red onion | ½ small | Thinly sliced |
Creamy Dressing & Seasonings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Rich, creamy base |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp | Adds smooth texture |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | Bright, tangy acidity |
| Sugar | 1 tsp | Balances the sharpness |
| Fresh dill | 1 tsp | Or ½ tsp dried dill |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Basic seasoning |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Preparing the Vegetables
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, tomato wedges, and thinly sliced red onion.
Phase 2: Whisking the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Phase 3: Combining, Chilling, and Serving
- Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor infusion.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill or freshly cracked black pepper if desired, and serve cold!
Chef Tips for Perfect Results
Keep it Crisp: Salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then pat them dry with paper towels to keep your salad from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions: This salad is best served chilled alongside grilled chicken, burgers, barbecue, or sandwiches.
Conclusion
Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad is a quick, vibrant, and ultra-refreshing side dish that brings a cool, creamy crunch to any warm-weather meal!