About This Recipe
German cucumber salad (Gurkensalat) is a traditional side dish in German cuisine. It features thinly sliced cucumbers in a tangy vinegar-based dressing, typically served chilled. This salad is commonly prepared during summer months when cucumbers are in season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires minimal preparation time
- Uses affordable, accessible ingredients
- Contains no dairy or gluten
- Offers a light, refreshing accompaniment to heavy meals
- Adapts well to variations in sweetness and acidity
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (approx. 700g)
- 1 tsp salt (for draining)
- 1 small white onion (approx. 100g)
- 120ml white vinegar
- 60ml water
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: 1 tbsp neutral vegetable oil
Step by Step Instructions
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly. Peel if desired, or leave skin on for texture.
- Thinly slice cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline (approx. 1/8 inch thick).
- Place sliced cucumbers in colander. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and toss gently.
- Let cucumbers drain over bowl or sink for 30 minutes to remove excess water.
- While cucumbers drain, thinly slice onion into half-rings.
- In medium bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and pepper. Whisk until sugar dissolves.
- Rinse cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Combine cucumbers and onions in serving bowl. Pour dressing over vegetables.
- Add chopped dill and optional vegetable oil. Toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to develop.
FAQ
Can I use apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar is traditional, but apple cider vinegar can substitute for milder acidity.
Must I peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. Unpeeled cucumbers provide texture and color contrast.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Sugar balances acidity; reduce incrementally to maintain flavor equilibrium.
What main dishes pair well?
Traditionally served with schnitzel, sausages, roasted meats, or potato dishes.
You Must Know
- Salting and draining cucumbers prevents a watery salad
- Fresh dill significantly impacts flavor – dried substitutes are not recommended
- Vinegar concentration varies by brand; adjust water ratio if needed
- Flavor intensity increases with refrigeration time
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Dressing will continue to break down cucumbers over time – best consumed within 24 hours
- Do not freeze; texture becomes mushy after thawing
- Stir before serving if liquid separates during storage