• Cucumbers: 2 large English cucumbers (or 3-4 pickling/Kirby cucumbers), thinly sliced
• Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons, for drawing out moisture from cucumbers, plus more to taste for the dressing
• Sour Cream: 1 cup, full-fat recommended for best texture and flavor
• Fresh Dill: ¼ cup, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill, though fresh is highly preferred)
• White Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (or apple cider vinegar, or fresh lemon juice)
• Granulated Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, adjust to taste)
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste
• Optional Enhancements: Red Onion: ¼ cup, very thinly sliced or finely minced (for a sharper bite)
• Garlic: 1 small clove, minced or pressed (for a pungent kick)
• Green Onions/Scallions: 2-3, thinly sliced (for a milder onion flavor)