Creamy Cucumber Salad with Dill
It’s extremely hot in Saigon where I’m living now - the kind of heat where stepping outside feels like opening an oven. Lately, I’ve been surviving on iced water and cold salads, day in and day out. And along the way, I stumbled onto this one salad that totally changed the game: a cold, creamy cucumber salad with corn, red onion, and tons of fresh dill. It’s simple, cooling, and tastes like summer in a bowl.
Now, this isn’t an Asian salad - no fish sauce, no soy, no chili oil in sight - but I’ve gotten totally addicted to it. There’s something about that combo of tangy yogurt, sweet corn, crunchy cucumbers, and herby dill that just hits the spot. It’s light but satisfying. It feels clean without being boring. And most importantly, it takes less than 15 minutes to make. Major bonus when you’re trying to keep the stove off.
Dill Deserves Its Own Spotlight
Let’s talk about dill for a second - the star herb here. It’s not something I grew up cooking with, but now I can’t stop putting it in everything. It’s grassy, fresh, a little lemony, and gives this salad such a lift. Dill adds that subtle zing that makes everything taste more alive. If you’re not a dill person, you can totally swap it for cilantro or parsley, but give dill a shot. It might just surprise you.
Why I’m Obsessed with Corn in This Salad 🌽
I have a serious love affair with corn - it’s sweet, juicy, and adds this amazing pop of color and texture to any dish. In this creamy cucumber salad, corn isn’t just a sidekick; it’s a star player. Whether you use fresh, canned, or frozen corn, it blends beautifully with the cool crunch of cucumbers and the tangy, creamy dressing. That natural sweetness balances the savory and zesty flavors perfectly, making every bite exciting and satisfying. Plus, corn adds a bit of natural fiber and nutrients, giving this salad even more reason to make it a regular on your summer table.
The Zesty Magic of Lemon Zest 🍋
Lemon zest is one of those little kitchen secrets that takes this creamy cucumber salad to the next level. It adds a bright, citrusy aroma that wakes up your senses without overpowering the other flavors. Unlike lemon juice, the zest brings a subtle bitterness and complexity that makes each bite feel fresh and vibrant. Plus, lemon zest pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt and fresh dill, making this salad a refreshing, light option for hot days. If you’re searching for easy summer salads or healthy cucumber salad recipes, don’t skip the lemon zest - it’s a small ingredient with a big impact!
A Surprisingly High-Protein, Healthy Boost
You might think a salad like this is just about staying cool and fresh - and it totally is - but here’s a little bonus: thanks to the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), this creamy cucumber salad is actually a high-protein powerhouse. Growing up, I didn’t pay much attention to protein in salads, but now I’m all about meals that do double duty: refreshing and filling. Greek yogurt adds that creamy texture and a nice protein boost that helps keep me full longer, especially when the heat zaps my energy and I’m not in the mood for heavy meals.
So whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a healthy snack, or a cool side dish to pair with grilled chicken or fish, this salad has you covered. It’s one of those rare salads that actually feels like a mini meal - packed with protein, flavor, and a whole lot of freshness. Perfect for anyone hunting for easy, healthy, and satisfying summer recipes!
Ingredient Breakdown
This salad is all about ease and flexibility. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cucumbers: Persian or Japanese cucumbers are perfect here - thin-skinned, crunchy, and not too watery. English cucumber works too, just scoop out the seeds.
- Red onion: Adds sharpness and crunch. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, give it a quick soak in cold water.
- Corn: Use what you have - fresh, canned, or thawed frozen. I love the pop of sweetness it brings.
- Dill: Bright, fragrant, and key to that refreshing flavor.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream: For the creamy base.
- Mayo: Just a bit for richness.
- Honey: Balances the tang and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic: Because always.
- Lemon juice + zest: For zip!
- Chili flakes: Optional, but adds a nice kick.
- Salt + pepper: Season it well - don’t skip this.
You can also toss in chopped celery, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, or even cooked pasta if you want to bulk it up. It’s a fridge-cleanout kind of salad that welcomes leftovers and adapts to whatever you’ve got lying around.
