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Fresh Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe Easy German-Style Side Dish

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A simple, refreshing German-style cucumber salad with a creamy dill dressing, perfect for summer and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large cucumbers (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams), thinly sliced — English or Kirby cucumbers work best
  • 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup sour cream (240 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (15 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (about a handful)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard seeds or a pinch of caraway seeds
  • Optional: 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers well. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Place the slices in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt over the cucumber slices and toss gently. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain any liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion. If desired, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, and freshly chopped dill until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly. Stir in mustard seeds or garlic if using.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, stir the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or dill if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

Salting cucumbers and draining excess water is key to prevent a watery salad. Use fresh dill for best flavor. The salad tastes best after chilling for at least 30 minutes. Optional ingredients like mustard seeds and garlic add texture and flavor. Dairy-free versions can use coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Adjust vinegar and sugar to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, dill salad, German side dish, summer salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/fresh-creamy-cucumber-dill-salad-recipe-easy-german-style-side-dish/