Creamy Cucumber Salad That’s Perfect for Summer Fun Recipe

Introduction

This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. Combining crisp vegetables with a zesty, creamy dressing, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

A bowl of fresh salad with several layers: the bottom layer has bright yellow corn kernels and pieces of corn on the cob with a shiny, slightly wet texture; the middle layer contains thick slices of green cucumber with ridged edges and a glossy surface; scattered throughout are small red chili pepper pieces adding contrast; the salad is covered with a white creamy dressing that lightly coats the vegetables, with flecks of black pepper and green herbs sprinkled on top; two vibrant green mint leaves rest on the surface, adding a fresh look. The bowl is white with a round shape, set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (can substitute with canned corn)
  • 1 medium cucumber (English cucumbers recommended)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (grape tomatoes can be substituted)
  • 1/2 medium red onion (use green onions for milder taste)
  • 1 cup feta cheese (can substitute with goat cheese or omit)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (can omit if not preferred)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used for lighter option)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream (can substitute with more Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (lemon juice serves as a good substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to preferred heat level)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook the fresh corn kernels in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes until tender but still crisp, then drain and let cool.
  2. Step 2: Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the red onion. Combine these with the cooled corn in a large bowl.
  3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped cilantro over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • For a lighter salad, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
  • Use green onions instead of red onion for a milder taste.
  • To keep the salad fresh and crisp, prepare it shortly before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving again. Since the dressing contains dairy and fresh vegetables, it’s best enjoyed fresh and not frozen.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a salad served in a white bowl, featuring three main layers: bright yellow corn segments with a glossy texture forming the base, thick slices of green cucumber with a fresh, moist look placed evenly around the corn, and pieces of red onion adding contrast within the mix. The salad is coated with a creamy white dressing speckled with black pepper and green herbs. On top, vibrant green fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and texture. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and colorful presentation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn can be used. Thaw and drain it well before cooking or adding to the salad to avoid excess moisture.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese and substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives such as vegan mayo and coconut yogurt.

Print

Creamy Cucumber Salad That’s Perfect for Summer Fun Recipe

This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. It combines crisp corn, cool cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together by a zesty lime and chili-infused creamy dressing. Easy to prepare and versatile with substitution options, this salad makes a delicious side or light meal that celebrates fresh, seasonal flavors.

  • Author: mia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (Can substitute with canned corn)
  • 1 medium cucumber (English cucumbers recommended)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (Grape tomatoes can be substituted)
  • 1/2 medium red onion (Use green onions for milder taste)

Dairy

  • 1 cup feta cheese (Can substitute with goat cheese or omit)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used for lighter option)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream (Can substitute with more Greek yogurt)

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1/4 cup cilantro (Can omit if not preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (Lemon juice serves as a good substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (Adjust to preferred heat level)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Corn: Start by cooking the fresh corn kernels until they are tender but still retain a slight crispness, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You can boil or steam the corn, then drain and let it cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the corn cools, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Combine all these vegetables with the cooled corn in a large mixing bowl to create a fresh vegetable base.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds tangy and spicy notes that complement the fresh vegetables.
  4. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
  5. Add Cheese and Herbs: Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped cilantro over the top of the salad just before serving to add a salty and herbaceous finish.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt.
  • You can omit the cilantro if you prefer an herb-free salad.
  • Adjust the chili powder to control the heat according to your preference.
  • If fresh corn is unavailable, canned corn can be used as a convenient substitute.
  • Green onions can replace red onion for a milder onion flavor.
  • Serve chilled for best taste and texture, especially on warm days.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.

Keywords: creamy cucumber salad, summer salad, corn salad, fresh vegetable salad, feta cheese salad, easy side dish

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