If you are craving a dish that is both refreshing and comforting, then this Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. The combination of soft, tender potatoes and crisp, cool cucumbers tossed in a luscious and tangy creamy dressing makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re packing for a picnic or looking for a vibrant side for dinner, this salad brings together simple ingredients in a harmonious way that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the creamy base to the fresh crunch, every component elevates the dish beautifully.
- Potatoes (3 cups, boiled and cubed): The backbone of the salad, providing a soft, hearty texture that soaks up the dressing wonderfully.
- Cucumber (1 cup, sliced): Adds a crisp, cool freshness that cuts through the creaminess with each bite.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (½ cup): Creates the rich and tangy element that makes the dressing creamy without overwhelming the salad.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Gives extra silkiness to the dressing and binds everything together.
- Lemon juice or vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens the dressing with a hint of acidity, balancing the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional): Adds a burst of herbaceous aroma and a lovely pop of color.
How to Make Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling your potatoes until they are tender but not mushy. Once cooked, drain and allow them to cool completely before cubing. This step is crucial because warm potatoes can soak up too much dressing making the salad soggy.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, and lemon juice or vinegar. Season this mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then whisk until smooth and creamy. The balance of tangy and rich flavors in this dressing is what makes this salad truly special.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooled, cubed potatoes and sliced cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together so each piece is coated evenly without breaking apart the potatoes. If you have fresh dill or parsley on hand, sprinkle it in now for extra freshness and color.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor and texture, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
How to Serve Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your salad presentation by garnishing with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. A few thin slices of radish or a dusting of smoked paprika can add visual appeal and a hint of flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or sausages, adding a cool, creamy contrast to smoky, charred flavors. It’s also fantastic alongside a simple green salad or fresh bread for a light yet satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish twist, serve the salad in clear glass bowls that showcase its vibrant colors. You could also use small mason jars for individual servings, perfect for picnics or potlucks. Adding edible flowers turns it into a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to two days, but make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled and does not freeze well. The cucumbers and potatoes will lose their texture and become watery when thawed, so freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
Since this dish is meant to be served cold, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow the salad to rest at room temperature for a short time before serving, but never heat it directly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best and work wonderfully in this salad. Avoid starchy potatoes which can become too mushy.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that adds a similar tang and creaminess but with fewer calories. You can also try a dairy-free yogurt if you want a vegan option.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for vegan versions available at most grocery stores. The flavor will still be delightfully creamy and fresh.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
At least 30 minutes of chilling allows the flavors to meld, but you can refrigerate it for up to a few hours for enhanced taste and refreshment.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Red onion, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers add extra crunch and flavor. Just be sure to keep the cucumber for that refreshing contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration with every bite. It brings together simple, fresh ingredients in a way that transforms mealtime into something delightful and memorable. I encourage you to try it yourself—you might just find it becoming your new go-to salad for any occasion!
Print
Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Potato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dressing is a refreshing and comforting side dish featuring tender boiled potatoes and crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy, smooth dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Perfect for picnics, family dinners, or as a cool complement to any meal, this salad is easy to prepare and delicious served chilled.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups potatoes, boiled and cubed
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- Optional: fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Creamy Dressing
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and allow them to cool completely before using to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled boiled potatoes and sliced cucumbers into the dressing bowl. If using, add chopped fresh dill or parsley for added flavor.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure the potatoes and cucumbers are evenly coated with the creamy dressing without breaking up the potatoes.
- Chill Before Serving: Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to serve cold.
Notes
- Add thinly sliced red onion for an extra bite and enhanced flavor.
- Best served chilled to maintain the crispness of cucumbers and freshness of the dressing.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead of time and stored covered in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
