If you’re craving a salad that is crisp, uplifting, and bursting with flavor, this Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine thinly sliced cucumbers and onions enveloped in a luscious, tangy dressing made from sour cream, white vinegar, and fresh dill—a perfect harmony of creamy, sharp, and herbaceous notes. It’s an effortless dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal and is bound to become a beloved staple in your home cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad’s magic lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the crunchy texture of the cucumber or the bright punch from the vinegar and dill, they all work together to create a perfectly balanced dish.
- 2 large cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers, thinly sliced for crunch and freshness.
- 1 small onion: Thinly sliced for a slight sharpness that pairs beautifully with the cucumbers.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy base that brings richness without overpowering the tang.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds the essential tangy kick that brightens the salad.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill): Dill’s fresh, herbal notes elevate the flavor profile instantly.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw out moisture from cucumbers.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the creamy dressing.
How to Make Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by peeling your cucumbers if you prefer a milder texture, although leaving the skin on adds vibrant color and extra nutrients. Slice them ultra-thin using a sharp knife or mandoline for that ideal crunch. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit in a colander for 15 to 20 minutes to draw out excess water, preventing a soggy salad. Remember to pat the cucumber slices dry before proceeding for the best texture.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
While your cucumbers are resting, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and freshly chopped dill in a large bowl. This creamy dressing is the heart of the salad, providing a luscious, tangy, and herbaceous coat for each cucumber slice. Take your time to get it perfectly smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Once the cucumbers are drained and patted dry, toss them gently with the thinly sliced onions into the bowl of creamy dressing. Use a soft hand to coat every slice evenly, making sure the onions and cucumbers soak up all that flavorful goodness without breaking apart.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover your salad and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial—it allows the flavors to mingle and deepen, turning that simple combination into a wonderfully refreshing side dish. Just before serving, sprinkle some extra fresh dill on top for a beautiful, fragrant finish.
How to Serve Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For a striking presentation and an extra burst of flavor, garnish your salad with a few delicate sprigs of fresh dill or a light dusting of black pepper. If you want a little crunch, toasted sunflower seeds or thinly sliced radishes make lovely toppings that elevate the texture and look.
Side Dishes
This cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like bratwurst or poultry and is an excellent complement to rich, hearty dishes because its bright acidity cuts through heavier flavors. It’s also fantastic alongside schnitzel or served as a refreshing palate cleanser during a multi-course meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in small clear jars or glass bowls when hosting guests; the vibrant green and creamy dressing create an inviting visual feast. Alternatively, serve it on crisp lettuce leaves as individual portions or even atop rye bread for a fresh and tasty open-faced salad bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers tend to become watery and lose their crispness when frozen. Therefore, freezing is not recommended for this recipe.
Reheating
There’s really no need to reheat this salad since its charm lies in its cool, crisp texture and vibrant flavors. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge to enjoy its full refreshing effect.
FAQs
Can I use a different herb instead of dill?
Absolutely! While dill is traditional and adds a distinct flavor, fresh parsley or chives can also work nicely if you want to switch things up or if dill isn’t readily available.
Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on offers more texture and nutrients, but peeling cucumbers can help the salad taste milder and look a bit more elegant.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or vegan sour cream alternative to keep the creamy texture while adhering to a vegan diet.
How long should I salt the cucumbers before rinsing?
Salting the cucumber slices for 15 to 20 minutes is ideal to draw out excess water, which helps prevent a watery salad and enhances the overall flavor concentration.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Definitely! Just keep it chilled in a cooler until serving, and toss it gently right before eating to redistribute the dressing and keep the cucumbers crispy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your meals with a dish that is as easy as it is delightful, give this Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe a try. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, bringing a trustworthy burst of fresh flavor and creamy tang to your table every time.
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Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad with a Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Refreshing and Tangy German Cucumber Salad features thinly sliced cucumbers and onions tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from sour cream, white vinegar, and fresh dill. A light sprinkle of sugar and seasonings balances the flavors perfectly, making it an ideal chilled side dish for warm weather or any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Peel the cucumbers if preferred, then slice them very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water, then pat dry with a paper towel to prevent a watery salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, salt, and chopped dill until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming a tangy and flavorful dressing.
- Combine the Salad: Add the drained cucumber slices and thinly sliced onions into the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all cucumber slices are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to cool. Garnish with additional dill if desired before serving to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Peeling cucumbers is optional; leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and a slight crunch.
- Using a mandoline ensures uniformly thin slices for the best texture and appearance.
- Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt helps reduce excess moisture, preventing a watery dressing.
- This salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for warm-weather meals or as a refreshing side dish.
- Adjust the sugar amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
