German Cucumber Salad, also known as Gurkensalat, is a refreshing and light side dish that’s perfect for summer or as an accompaniment to hearty meals. With thinly sliced cucumbers in a tangy, creamy dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, sausages, or enjoying it on its own, this classic salad is quick, easy, and incredibly tasty.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for creamier texture)
Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers
Peel the cucumbers if desired (optional, especially if the skins are thick or waxed). Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible. Thin slices will absorb the dressing better and create a delicate texture.
Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers
Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle them with about ½ teaspoon of salt. Let the cucumbers sit for 10-15 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, which will keep your salad from becoming too watery.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vinegar, dill, sugar, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with salt, sugar, or more vinegar if needed. For a creamier dressing, whisk in olive oil.
Step 4: Drain the Cucumbers
After the cucumbers have rested, drain off the excess liquid that the salt has drawn out. You can gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel to remove any remaining moisture.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers (and sliced red onion if using) and toss to coat evenly. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key to achieving that delicious tangy, creamy taste!
Step 6: Serve
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss, and it’s ready to serve! Garnish with extra fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Vinegar Options: Feel free to use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Dill: Fresh dill is ideal for this recipe, but if you don’t have fresh on hand, dried dill works just as well. Adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Sugar: The sugar is optional, but it helps balance the tangy vinegar and sour cream. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it entirely for a sugar-free version.
Variations
1. German Cucumber Salad with Vinegar Dressing
For a lighter version of this salad, skip the sour cream or yogurt and use a simple vinaigrette made with vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh dill.
2. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Add cherry tomatoes or sliced tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. The tomatoes add sweetness and acidity, making the salad even more refreshing.
3. Creamy Cucumber and Potato Salad
Mix boiled baby potatoes with the cucumbers and the creamy dill dressing for a heartier version. This is perfect as a standalone dish for summer picnics or BBQs.
4. Spicy German Cucumber Salad
Add a kick to your salad by incorporating sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the dressing for a spicy twist.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
This German Cucumber Salad is naturally low-carb and perfect for keto diets. Simply omit the sugar in the dressing or replace it with a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol to keep it completely keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this salad tastes even better after it’s had time to chill in the fridge and the flavors have melded. It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before serving.
Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
The salad will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the cucumbers may start to lose their crispness.
Q: Do I have to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling the cucumbers is optional. If using English cucumbers (which have thinner skin), you can leave the peel on for added texture. If using regular cucumbers with thick, waxy skins, you may want to peel them for a smoother salad.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It adds creaminess with a bit more tang and is slightly healthier.
This German Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, tangy side dish that’s perfect for any meal, especially in warm weather. The combination of crisp cucumbers, creamy dressing, and a hint of dill makes it the perfect complement to grilled meats, sausages, or just about any dish. With easy variations and the ability to make it ahead of time, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it out at your next gathering or family dinner, and watch it disappear!
