Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful side that’s delightfully cool and packed with a touch of umami, my Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. It’s the kind of dish that feels effortlessly sophisticated yet incredibly quick to whip up. Imagine crisp cucumber slices coated in a smooth, tangy dressing with just the right hint of spice and nuttiness, making every bite irresistibly refreshing and satisfying. Whether it’s a sunny weekend lunch or a vibrant addition to your dinner plate, this creamy cucumber salad will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy, just simple ingredients that come together in harmony to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays a vital role, from the crunch of the cucumber to the richness of the dressing and the nutty crunch of roasted sesame seeds.

• English cucumber or Persian cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, they are the star of the dish; thin slices ensure the perfect texture.
• Green onion: Adds a mild sharpness and vibrant green color that livens up the salad.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out excess moisture and intensifying the cucumber’s natural flavor.
• Kewpie mayo: Provides a creamy, slightly tangy base that binds the dressing beautifully.
• Sesame oil: Offers a rich, nutty aroma that gives the salad its unforgettable depth.
• Roasted sesame seeds: Adds crunch and toasty notes that contrast perfectly with the creamy dressing.
• Rice vinegar: Brightens the flavors with its mild acidity, balancing the richness of the mayo.
• Sriracha chili sauce (optional): Introduces a subtle heat for those who enjoy a little kick in their salad.

How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

Start by slicing your English or Persian cucumbers into thin discs. A mandolin slicer set to a medium-thin setting works wonders here for even, crisp slices. This uniformity ensures each piece soaks up the dressing perfectly and creates a pleasing texture that’s satisfying to bite into.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

Next, toss the cucumber slices with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out excess water, preventing your salad from becoming soggy. After resting, pour out the liquid and gently squeeze the cucumbers by hand to remove any leftover moisture. Avoid rinsing, as the salt helps enhance the overall flavor.

Step 3: Make the Dressing and Toss

Now for the fun part – mix together Kewpie mayo, sesame oil, roasted sesame seeds, rice vinegar, thinly sliced green onion, and a touch of Sriracha if you’re feeling spicy. Pour this luscious dressing over the cucumbers, then toss everything thoroughly so every slice is beautifully coated. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this final step lets you customize the balance of flavors just how you like it.

How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe truly pop, sprinkle some additional roasted sesame seeds or a few fresh cilantro leaves on top. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra sesame oil can also add an elegant, aromatic finish that makes the dish visually stunning and enticing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty meals. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fresh sushi, or teriyaki salmon to complement the fresh, creamy crunch. It’s also a fantastic cooling contrast to spicy dishes or rich mains like barbecue ribs or pulled pork sandwiches.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your creamy cucumber salad in small glass bowls for individual portions, making the colors and texture shine. Alternatively, layer it in a mason jar with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a picnic-ready, grab-and-go option that’s as charming as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any creamy cucumber salad left, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed the same day for maximum crispness. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

Freezing

Because of the fresh cucumbers and mayo in this Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor will suffer, turning watery and less appealing upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary. Keep it chilled for the best experience, enjoying its cooling and creamy qualities at every bite.

FAQs

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayo?

Absolutely! While Kewpie mayo adds a slightly sweeter, richer flavor, regular mayonnaise works perfectly well as a substitute if you can’t find Kewpie.

What if I don’t have a mandolin slicer?

No worries! You can use a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible. The key is to have uniform slices so the dressing coats evenly.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your mayonnaise and Sriracha don’t contain gluten ingredients, this creamy cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free.

How spicy is the salad with Sriracha?

The Sriracha adds a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer mild, add just a little or omit it altogether.

Can I add other veggies to this salad?

Definitely! Thin slices of radish or bell pepper can add nice color and crunch, though the classic cucumber is the star of this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe is such a simple yet sensational dish that brightens any meal with its cool, creamy, and slightly nutty charm. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. So grab those cucumbers and get ready to enjoy one of the freshest, most satisfying salads you’ll make all year long.

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