Creamy Cucumber Salad is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. Thin cucumber slices are tossed in a tangy, herby dressing made with vegan mayo, vinegar, and just a touch of maple syrup for balance. It’s the perfect combination of crisp and creamy, cooling and flavorful.
This dish shines as a standalone lunch or a zesty side to your favorite main. Ideal for hot summer days, picnics, BBQs, or meal prepping, this salad is quick to whip up, easy to customize, and guaranteed to impress with its vibrant taste and texture. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to every week.
Full Recipe:
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1 large cucumber, sliced thinly
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp dried dill (or fresh, chopped)
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2 tbsp vegan mayo (or regular mayo if not vegan)
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2 tsp white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
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1/4 tsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Place the thinly sliced cucumber in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out water.
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Pat dry the cucumbers with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, onion powder, dill, mayo, vinegar, maple syrup, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.
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Chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 90 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Delightful Simplicity of Creamy Cucumber Salad
Creamy Cucumber Salad is one of those timeless recipes that never go out of style. Its appeal lies in its crisp texture, cool temperature, and the balance of creamy and tangy flavors. Whether it’s served as a side dish at a summer BBQ or enjoyed as a light lunch on a warm afternoon, this dish embodies comfort, simplicity, and refreshment.
Originating from traditional European cucumber salads, this vegan version by Gina B Nutrition brings a modern, plant-based twist that makes it accessible for more dietary lifestyles. It replaces sour cream or dairy-based dressings with vegan mayonnaise, ensuring a luscious texture while keeping it completely dairy-free. Enhanced with garlic, dill, vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup, this recipe is not just about simplicity—it’s about flavor done right.
Why This Salad Works So Well
What makes this salad particularly special is the way it highlights the natural freshness of cucumbers without overshadowing it. Cucumbers are over 95% water, which gives them a hydrating, crunchy bite that’s perfect for hot days or when you need a refreshing palate cleanser.
By salting the cucumbers first, water is drawn out, preventing the salad from becoming watery and diluted. This extra step makes a big difference in texture and allows the creamy dressing to cling to the slices, coating them evenly for every flavorful bite.
The use of dried or fresh dill adds a classic herby punch that complements cucumbers perfectly. Dill has a slightly grassy and tangy taste that pairs exceptionally well with both vinegar and mayonnaise. Garlic powder and onion powder add an undertone of savory flavor, transforming this salad from plain cucumber slices into a dish that stands on its own.
Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Full of Goodness
One of the most attractive aspects of this creamy cucumber salad is its inclusivity. It’s suitable for those following a vegan or plant-based diet, and it’s naturally gluten-free. There’s no need for substitutions or adjustments for these dietary needs, making it an excellent dish for a mixed-crowd event or potluck.
From a nutritional standpoint, cucumbers are low in calories but high in antioxidants and water content. They can help with hydration, digestion, and even skin health. Vegan mayo brands are now widely available and often made with heart-healthy oils like avocado or sunflower oil, which contribute good fats to the dish. This makes the salad not only refreshing but also nourishing.
Variations to Try
While this version is absolutely delightful as is, the versatility of cucumber salad makes it a fantastic base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas for variations:
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Add red onion slices: For a touch of sharpness and color contrast, thinly sliced red onions are a classic addition.
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Throw in cherry tomatoes: These can add sweetness and a burst of juiciness that plays well with the tangy dressing.
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
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Switch up the herbs: Try fresh mint or parsley in place of dill for a different herbaceous twist.
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Use Greek-style vegan yogurt: For those who want a thicker, tangier dressing, unsweetened plant-based Greek yogurt can replace mayo.
These adjustments can help customize the dish to seasonal produce or personal taste preferences while maintaining its simple and refreshing essence.
Ideal Serving Suggestions
Creamy cucumber salad shines when served chilled, making it perfect for outdoor meals, summer lunches, and quick dinners. It pairs beautifully with grilled items like tofu skewers, vegan burgers, or roasted veggie sandwiches. It can also serve as a crunchy contrast to richer, more savory dishes like baked pastas or lentil loaves.
You can also turn this salad into a light meal on its own by serving it over a bed of baby spinach or arugula and topping it with toasted seeds, chickpeas, or sliced avocado. It’s easy to scale up for meal prepping or potlucks, and it stores well in the fridge for up to two days, making it a reliable recipe to keep in your rotation.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
One of the most underrated features of this salad is that it’s incredibly beginner-friendly. You don’t need to be an expert chef to master it. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry. There’s no cooking involved, and cleanup is minimal.
This makes it a perfect recipe for those just getting into plant-based cooking or anyone looking for a fast, healthy option without compromising on flavor. It’s also a great way to encourage kids to eat more vegetables, especially when presented in a creamy, familiar format.
Sustainability and Budget Friendliness
This salad is not only good for you, but it’s also good for the planet and your wallet. Cucumbers are affordable and widely available, even organic ones. Because the recipe uses shelf-stable seasonings and condiments, it reduces food waste and relies on pantry staples.
Choosing vegan mayonnaise instead of dairy products contributes to a lower carbon footprint, making this salad an environmentally conscious choice. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and there’s no need for specialized equipment or niche products.
A Staple for Summer and Beyond
Although it’s often associated with warm-weather meals, this creamy cucumber salad can easily be adapted for year-round enjoyment. In cooler months, pair it with warm grain bowls, roasted root vegetables, or hearty soups for a contrasting cool and creamy component. It brings a fresh brightness to heavier dishes and works as a great reset between richer bites.
Moreover, it can be made ahead for meal prepping. Because it only takes 10 minutes to make, you can easily whip it up during your Sunday prep routine and have it ready as a quick lunch or dinner side throughout the week.
Conclusion: A Must-Have in Your Recipe Arsenal
Creamy cucumber salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a versatile, health-conscious, and utterly satisfying recipe that caters to many dietary needs and preferences. Its simplicity is its strength, and its flavor makes it memorable.
This particular version by Gina B Nutrition captures everything wonderful about this dish while making it 100% plant-based and easy to prepare. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned home chef, this is the kind of go-to recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
With minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and flexibility in how you serve or customize it, the creamy cucumber salad proves that simple food can still be incredibly satisfying. Next time you’re looking for something light, refreshing, and comforting, this is the recipe to reach for.