Delicious German cucumber salad served in a bowl with fresh herbs

German Cucumber Salad Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

German Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and uses just a few ingredients. This salad is perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh cucumbers!

How to Make German Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 English / telegraph cucumbers (or 4 Lebanese cucumbers)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain, thick yogurt)
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar (plain distilled vinegar)
  • 1 tsp white sugar
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper

Directions

  1. Peel the cucumbers and slice them into thin 2mm (0.2 inch) slices. You can use a mandoline for even slices or a knife if you want to show off your skills!
  2. In a small bowl, mix the dressing ingredients: sour cream, vinegar, sugar, dill, salt, and a bit of black pepper.
  3. Toss the sliced cucumbers with the dressing in a separate bowl. Make sure the cucumbers are well-coated.
  4. Set the salad aside for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This will help the cucumbers soften and release some juice, making the dressing the perfect consistency.
  5. When ready to serve, toss the salad again and transfer it to a serving bowl. Enjoy it chilled for the best refreshing flavor!

How to Serve German Cucumber Salad

Serve German Cucumber Salad chilled as a side dish to complement grilled meats and other hearty dishes. It’s also great on its own as a light snack or appetizer.

How to Store German Cucumber Salad

You can store the leftover salad in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Note that the cucumbers may become softer over time.

Tips to Make German Cucumber Salad

  • Use fresh cucumbers for the best taste. Look for firm cucumbers that are free of soft spots.
  • If you want extra crunch, try adding some sliced red onion or bell peppers to the salad.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more salt, sugar, or dill as you prefer.

Variation

You can add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or radishes for a colorful twist. If you prefer a tangy flavor, try using apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cucumbers?
Yes, you can use any type of cucumber, but English cucumbers are best for this salad due to their thin skin and lower seeds.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after it sits for a while in the fridge. Preparing it the night before is a great option.

Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, German Cucumber Salad is entirely vegetarian and can also be made vegan by using a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.