As the weather warms up, I find myself craving lighter, fresher dishes that are perfect for any occasion. One of my favorite summer side dishes is the German Cucumber Salad, also known as Gurkensalat. This simple yet delicious salad is a staple in German cuisine and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Serving Size: 4-6 people
Why You’ll Love It
I adore this salad for several reasons:
- Easy to Make: It requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it perfect for busy days.
- Refreshing: The combination of cool cucumbers, tangy sour cream, and fresh dill is incredibly refreshing.
- Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from BBQs to family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers thinly. If you want to remove excess moisture, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, vinegar, sugar (if using), dill, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the sliced cucumbers and onions (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a versatile side dish that complements many meals:
- BBQs and Picnics: Perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Family Dinners: Pairs well with roasted meats or fish.
- Potlucks: A refreshing addition to any shared meal.
Tips for Customization
- Add Garlic: For an extra depth of flavor, add a minced garlic clove to the dressing.
- Use Different Vinegars: Experiment with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.
- Substitute Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 70
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Q: How long can I store German Cucumber Salad in the fridge?
A: It’s best consumed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 hours. For longer storage, it might become soggy.
Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
A: Fresh dill provides the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh dill, frozen dill is a good alternative. Avoid using dried dill as it lacks the vibrant flavor.
Q: Is this salad suitable for low-carb diets?
A: Yes, this salad is relatively low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb diets. However, if you’re tracking carbs closely, consider using a sugar substitute. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing German Cucumber Salad! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just need a quick side dish, this recipe is sure to please.
