A recipe for traditional German cucumber salad featuring a rich, creamy dressing made with sour cream and fresh dill.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:50 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:No Cook
Cuisine:German
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large cucumbers
1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out water)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup plain yogurt (or substitute with more sour cream)
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 small shallot, finely minced (optional)
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and toss them with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 15 to 30 minutes to draw out excess water. This step helps keep the salad crisp.
After resting, place the salted cucumbers in a colander and gently press them with your hands or the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. Rinse the cucumbers briefly under cold water and pat them very dry with paper towels.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, yogurt, white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, chopped dill, and minced shallot (if using). Mix until the dressing is smooth.
Add the dried cucumber slices to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
For the crispiest results, ensure you press out all the liquid from the salted cucumbers before mixing with the dressing.
If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the vinegar slightly.
This salad tastes best when served cold, within 24 hours of preparation.