German Cucumber Salad, or Gurkensalat, is a refreshing and simple side dish that’s perfect for warm weather or to complement a hearty main course. With its creamy dressing and bright dill flavor, this salad is a staple in many German households. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients, and you can serve it alongside grilled meats, schnitzel, or enjoy it on its own. Here’s how to make this delicious cucumber salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 telegraph cucumbers (or 4 Lebanese cucumbers)
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill weed
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- Black pepper, to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Peel the cucumbers if desired (this is optional as some prefer to leave the skin on for added texture). Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice the cucumbers very thinly. The thinner the slices, the better the dressing will coat each piece.
Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers
Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle them with the ½ teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, helping the salad stay crisp and not watery.
Step 3: Drain the Cucumbers
After the cucumbers have released some of their water, drain off the excess liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine the white sugar, white vinegar, fresh dill, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Add black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the Salad
Toss the drained cucumbers with the creamy dill dressing. Stir gently until the cucumbers are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (you may want to add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to taste).
Step 6: Chill and Serve
For best results, refrigerate the cucumber salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled, garnished with a bit of extra dill if desired.
Cooking Notes:
- Greek Yogurt vs. Sour Cream: Using Greek yogurt will give a lighter and tangier flavor compared to sour cream, which offers a richer and creamier taste. Both work well, so it’s up to your preference.
- Adjust Sweetness and Tang: If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a little more sugar. For a more tangy version, increase the amount of vinegar.
- Use Fresh Dill: Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can use dried dill. Just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Variations:
1. Vinegar-Only Version
For a lighter, dairy-free version, skip the sour cream or yogurt and make a simple dressing with vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and dill. This will give you a crisp, tangy cucumber salad.
2. Garlic-Infused Cucumber Salad
For a burst of flavor, add 1-2 minced garlic cloves to the dressing. The garlic pairs wonderfully with the dill and sour cream, adding extra depth to the salad.
3. Cucumber and Onion Salad
For a heartier salad, add thinly sliced red onions or sweet onions to the cucumbers. This gives the salad a bit more crunch and a slight bite from the onion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cucumber salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to drain the cucumbers well to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Q: How long does this salad keep?
A: German cucumber salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed on the day it’s made, as the cucumbers may become softer over time.
Q: Can I use English cucumbers instead of telegraph or Lebanese cucumbers?
A: Yes, English cucumbers work well in this recipe. They are often seedless and have a thin skin, so you may not need to peel them unless you prefer to.
This German Cucumber Salad is a light, refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for pairing with a variety of meals. The combination of cool cucumbers, creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt, and fragrant dill creates a harmonious flavor that’s irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or alongside a hearty main dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Enjoy the fresh flavors of this classic dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations to make it your own!