Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad

Name: Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, sliced; 2 cups carrots, grated or julienned; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish

By: John.Morgan35 | Published onFebruary 17, 2026

Creamy cucumber and carrot salad in a bowl, garnished with herbs.

Healthy Recipes

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If you’re looking for a refreshing salad that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, the Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad is just what you need. This vibrant dish is perfect for those hot summer days or as a light accompaniment to your favorite meal. With the soothing crunch of cucumbers paired with the sweet zest of carrots, this salad offers a delightful contrast that just begs to be made. Personally, this recipe has been a staple at my family gatherings, and it’s quickly become a crowd favorite!

Why you’ll love this dish

Why should you whip up this Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad today? First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, often taking less than 10 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly and easy on the wallet—just a handful of ingredients transform into a delectable side dish everyone will rave about.

"This salad has become my go-to for potlucks! It’s creamy, crunchy, and has the perfect tang." — Emma T.

Perfect for summer barbecues, family picnics, or simply as a side to a grilled chicken dinner, this dish brings a bit of crisp freshness to any table. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply want a nutritious snack, this salad checks all the boxes.

The cooking process explained

Here’s a straightforward overview of how this simple yet delicious salad comes together. First, you’ll prepare your vegetables by slicing cucumbers and grating or julienning the carrots. The dressing requires little more than whisking together a few creamy ingredients until smooth. It’s all about combining these elements to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

What you’ll find is a fuss-free recipe that celebrates the vibrant colors and tastes of fresh produce.

Gather these items

To create this delicious Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

2 cups cucumber, sliced
2 cups carrots, grated or julienned
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (your choice for creaminess)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise for that extra richness
1 tablespoon lemon juice for a zesty kick
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish

Feel free to play with the dressing, using Greek yogurt can add a healthy twist while keeping the creaminess intact.

Step-by-step instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started:

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and grated carrots.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and carrot mixture, then toss everything together until well coated.
If you like, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Serve chilled for the best flavor!

Best ways to enjoy it

This Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad is not just a side dish; it’s versatile enough to shine in various roles. Serve it as a refreshing appetizer before the main course or as a colorful side with grilled meats or fish. You can even pair it with sandwiches for a picnic or BBQ. For a picnic presentation, try serving it in a mason jar layered for a beautiful display.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store your Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Given that the cucumbers can release water over time, it’s best to enjoy the salad within a couple of days for peak freshness. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping your dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to retain that crisp texture.

Helpful cooking tips

If you want extra crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or sliced almonds.
For a twist, try mixing in sweet bell peppers or thinly sliced radishes for additional flavor and texture.
If making ahead, prepare the cucumber and carrot mixture first and dress it right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this salad! Try adding diced avocado for creaminess or replacing the sour cream with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free option. You could even spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. The possibilities are endless!

Common questions

What is the prep time for the creamy cucumber and carrot salad?

The prep time is incredibly quick—about 10 minutes! You can have this salad ready to serve in no time.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully and adds a tangy flavor while keeping the salad creamy. It’s a great healthier option too.

How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just keep in mind that cucumbers may become watery, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, but to maintain the best texture, consider dressing the salad just before serving if you’re making it more than a few hours in advance.

What do I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can work in a pinch! Just use them sparingly, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?

Definitely! This salad can easily be made vegan by omitting the mayonnaise and sour cream or replacing them with plant-based alternatives.

What kind of cucumbers are best for this recipe?

English cucumbers are a fantastic choice because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, providing a great texture for the salad.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or any other crisp vegetables you enjoy. Just make sure to keep the balance to maintain the salad’s creamy character.

Embrace the fresh flavors with this Creamy Cucumber and Carrot Salad; it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!