This German Cucumber Salad is a simple and refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers with a creamy, tangy dressing. The light yet flavorful combination of sour cream, vinegar, and dill creates a perfect balance of creaminess and acidity. Ideal for a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal, this salad is easy to make and always a hit. With its crisp texture and bright flavors, it’s a great way to enjoy cucumbers in a new way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: The salad comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect dish when you’re short on time.
Crisp and Creamy: The crunchy cucumbers are paired with a smooth and tangy dressing for the perfect texture contrast.
Refreshing: The combination of cucumbers, vinegar, and fresh dill makes this salad incredibly refreshing, ideal for warmer months.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of creaminess or tanginess to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

Add Garlic: For extra flavor, try adding a minced garlic clove to the dressing.
Use Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier and lower-fat option.
Add Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar slightly or add a splash of honey.
Try Red Onion: Substitute the regular onion with red onion for a mild yet colorful twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Peel the cucumbers (optional) and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let the cucumbers sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and chopped dill until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

Add the drained cucumber slices and thinly sliced onions to the dressing. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly with the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with additional dill if desired and serve chilled.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Slicing the Cucumbers: Thin slices are key to getting the right texture, so use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure even slices.
Letting the Cucumbers Rest: Salting the cucumbers and letting them sit helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring the salad isn’t too watery.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad for 30 minutes allows the flavors to develop and makes it even more refreshing.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or dill based on your preferences. You can also make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

How to Serve

This German Cucumber Salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or a light lunch. It also pairs well with other salads, potato dishes, or any Mediterranean-inspired meal. Serve it chilled for the best refreshing experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the cucumbers may soften over time, so it’s best served fresh.

Freezing

This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content in the cucumbers.

Reheating

Serve the salad cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Can I use other herbs besides dill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have dill or prefer a different flavor, you can use fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! You can add bell peppers, tomatoes, or even radishes to add color and crunch to the salad.

4. Is this salad vegetarian and gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is both vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt or mayonnaise to make this salad dairy-free.

6. How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy?

Salting the cucumbers and letting them sit before draining them helps remove excess water, preventing the salad from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

This German Cucumber Salad with a creamy dressing is the ultimate refreshing side dish for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect dish to make ahead or whip up quickly. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, it’s a satisfying and delicious option that’s sure to impress your guests.