Creamy Cucumber Salad with Mayo – A Refreshing Summer Classi

If you’re craving a light and refreshing side dish, this creamy cucumber salad with mayo is the perfect recipe. Featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and a tangy mayo-based dressing, it’s simple, delicious, and ideal for warm summer days. Known in some homes as Dad’s creamy cucumber salad or even pipino salad with mayonnaise, this old-fashioned favorite is a go-to dish for barbecues, family gatherings, or an easy everyday side.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad

  •  Classic creamy texture with a fresh crunch.
  •  Easy recipe – ready in minutes plus chilling time.
  •  Works with regular cucumbers or English cukes.
  •  A versatile side that pairs with almost any meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

  • 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp sea salt
  • For the dressing: 
    • 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (add more for creamier texture)
    • 2 tbsp white vinegar
    • 1 tbsp sugar
    • 1 tsp dried dill weed (or fresh dill if available)
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp ground black pepper

Step 1: Gather All Ingredients

Prepare your cucumbers, onions, and all dressing ingredients.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and onions with salt. Cover and let sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out excess water.

Step 3: Drain the Mixture

Transfer the cucumber and onion mixture to a colander. Let it drain until most of the liquid is gone, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dill, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Salad & Dressing

Add the drained cucumber and onion mix into the dressing. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber salad made with mayonnaise pairs well with:

  • Grilled chicken or barbecue ribs
  • Roasted or grilled fish
  • Summer sandwiches or burgers
  • Light pasta dishes

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Best enjoyed the same day, but can last up to 3–4 days.
  • If it becomes watery, stir in a little more mayonnaise before serving.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Fat: 33g
  • Carbs: 7g
  • Protein: 1g

FAQs About Cucumber Salad with Mayonnaise

  1. Can I use frozen cucumbers for this salad?
    Fresh cucumbers are best; frozen cucumbers will become mushy.
  2. What kind of vinegar works best?
    White vinegar is traditional, but apple cider vinegar adds a sweeter tang.
  3. How can I make this lighter?
    Use light mayonnaise or substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
  4. What is pipino salad with mayonnaise?
    “Pipino” means cucumber in Tagalog (Filipino). It’s simply a cucumber and mayo salad that’s popular in Filipino households.
  5. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
    Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a couple of hours.

Final Thoughts

This cucumber mayonnaise salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a refreshing comfort food with a creamy, tangy flavor that always satisfies. Whether you know it as dad’s cucumber salad, pipino salad with mayonnaise, or simply a creamy cucumber salad with mayo, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite for summer meals and beyond.