German Cucumber Salad

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German Cucumber Salad, also known as Gurkensalat, is a refreshing side dish that captures the essence of simple, clean European flavors. It features thinly sliced cucumbers and onions tossed in a light, tangy-sweet dressing that makes every bite crisp and cool. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, hearty stews, or enjoying it on its own, this salad brings a zesty crunch that balances rich flavors on your plate.

Perfect for summer picnics, cookouts, or even a weeknight dinner, this salad is incredibly easy to make and only gets better after a short chill in the fridge. It’s a staple in many German households and now it can be yours too.

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What Kind of Cucumbers Work Best for German Cucumber Salad?

The best cucumbers for this salad are English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. They have thinner skins, fewer seeds, and a naturally sweeter flavor, which means you don’t have to peel or seed them. If you’re using regular garden cucumbers, consider peeling and deseeding them to keep the texture and flavor light and enjoyable.

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Ingredients for the German Cucumber Salad

Cucumbers – These are the heart of the salad. Go for thin-skinned cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.

White Onion – Adds a crisp bite and slight sweetness. Sliced thin for balance in every mouthful.

White Vinegar – Brings tang and brightness to the dish. It’s what gives the salad its signature zing.

Sugar – Helps mellow out the vinegar’s acidity and rounds out the flavor.

Salt – Draws out moisture from the cucumbers and enhances every ingredient.

Black Pepper – For a touch of warmth and spice to balance the sweetness.

Dill (fresh or dried) – A classic herb in German cuisine. Adds a fragrant finish to the salad.

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How To Make the German Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly and slicing them into very thin rounds. A mandoline slicer works great here if you want consistent, even slices. Do the same with the white onion—paper-thin slices are ideal so they don’t overpower the cucumber.

Step 2: Salt and Rest

Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture, keeping the salad from getting watery. After 30 minutes, gently press or pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and dill. If you’re using fresh dill, chop it finely before adding. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture looks slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the salted cucumbers and sliced onions to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes the salad even more refreshing. Give it a final stir before serving.

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How to Serve and Store German Cucumber Salad

This salad is best served cold, making it the perfect contrast to warm main dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, or grilled chicken. Serve it in a chilled bowl to enhance its crispness. It also pairs beautifully with hearty entrees such as stews and roasts, balancing out rich, meaty flavors with its bright acidity.

To store, cover the salad tightly and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, though the cucumbers will soften slightly over time. Stir well before serving again to redistribute the dressing. It’s not freezer-friendly, so enjoy it fresh.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar adds a slightly fruity tang that works well in this salad. It’s a great substitute if you prefer a gentler acidity.

Is it necessary to salt the cucumbers first?

Salting is highly recommended. It prevents a watery salad and concentrates the cucumber flavor by drawing out excess liquid.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just don’t make it more than a day in advance if you want the cucumbers to stay crisp.

What if I don’t have dill?

You can skip it, but dill adds an authentic German flavor. A little chopped parsley or chives can work as a fresh alternative.

Are there any protein pairings you suggest?

Yes—this salad is fantastic with grilled sausages, roasted chicken, or even salmon. Its acidity cuts through fatty meats beautifully.

Can I add sour cream for a creamy version?

Definitely! Just mix a couple tablespoons of sour cream into the dressing for a creamy variation, which is also traditional in many German homes.

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Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this German Cucumber Salad, you might also enjoy some of these other fresh and flavorful recipes:

• Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad for a sweet and tangy veggie mix.
• Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad if you’re craving a dessert-style twist.
• Super Crunch Salad with bold textures and flavors.
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens for a plant-based protein-packed side.
• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies if you want a hearty warm option to balance your meal.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

Let me know in the comments how your German Cucumber Salad turned out. Did you stick with the classic version, or try the creamy dill twist? Did you pair it with grilled meat or something totally unique?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Ask your questions or share your tips—let’s make cooking more fun together.

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