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Creamy German Cucumber Salad Recipe with Fresh Dill

creamy german cucumber salad - featured image

A refreshing and creamy cucumber salad featuring fresh dill, perfect as a light side dish or potluck favorite. This easy recipe balances tangy, creamy, and herbaceous flavors for a satisfying and crisp salad.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers or about 4 smaller Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red or white onion (optional)
  • A pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry cucumbers. Slice thinly about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick using a mandoline or sharp knife. Scoop out seeds if desired.
  2. Place cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. Press cucumbers gently with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove released liquid.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Stir in finely chopped onions and fresh dill into the dressing.
  6. Gently fold drained cucumbers into the dressing until evenly coated, avoiding overmixing.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Salting and draining cucumbers before mixing prevents watery salad. Use fresh dill for best flavor. Chill salad at least 30 minutes or overnight for best taste. Let salad sit out 5-10 minutes before serving to take off chill. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt or cashew cream. For keto, omit sugar or use keto-friendly sweetener.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, German cucumber salad, fresh dill salad, easy cucumber salad, potluck salad, summer salad