Some recipes have a way of making every meal feel a little fresher, a little lighter, and a little more vibrant. German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat) is one of those dishes. With its delicate crunch, tangy-sweet dressing, and cooling effect, it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and bold flavor.
Traditionally served alongside rich German dishes, this salad has also found its way into modern kitchens as a go-to side for everything from grilled meats to fusion meals. The best part? It’s light, low in calories, and packed with hydrating cucumbers—making it a refreshing addition to any meal.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner with Mashed Potatoes or looking for a crisp contrast to Breaded Chinese Chicken, this salad delivers. This dish is more than just sliced cucumbers in vinegar. The secret lies in salting the cucumbers first, drawing out excess moisture to keep every bite crisp.
Tossed with a light yet flavorful dressing of vinegar, a touch of sugar, and fresh dill, it’s bright, zesty, and addictively good. Gurkensalat has been a staple in German households for generations, often served at summer gatherings and Oktoberfest celebrations.
But lately, it’s trending beyond German kitchens—likely because more people are discovering its low-calorie, high-nutrient benefits. Studies show that cucumbers are 96% water, making this salad an easy way to stay hydrated while enjoying a burst of flavor.
Why Is This My Go-To Recipe?
- It’s incredibly refreshing. After one bite, you’ll see why this salad is a warm-weather favorite. It’s light, crisp, and pairs beautifully with heavier dishes.
- It’s a meal prep dream – The flavors get even better as they marinate in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
- It complements so many meals – Whether you’re serving schnitzel, BBQ, or even a crispy Breaded Chinese Chicken, this salad adds the perfect contrast.
- It’s super healthy – Low in calories, high in hydration, and packed with antioxidants. This is a side dish you can feel good about.
- It takes less time! – Quick, easy, and delicious—what’s not to love?
German Cucumber Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Cutting board
- Colander or strainer
- Whisk
- Small bowl (for dressing)
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers or 4 medium cucumbers
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dill fresh or frozen
- 1/2 tsp salt
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers thinly using a knife or mandoline.
- Salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain well.
- Make the dressing by whisking vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Toss cucumbers with dressing and mix well.
- Add fresh dill for extra flavor and stir gently.
- Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving for the best taste.
- Optional: Add sour cream for a creamy version.
- Serve cold as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 45kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Unexpected Variations For This Recipe!
- Fermented Touch – Instead of a quick pickle, let the cucumbers sit in the dressing for 24-48 hours in the fridge. This enhances the tangy, umami depth while keeping the crunch.
- Smoky Depth – Add a touch of smoked paprika or charred green onions to introduce a subtle smokiness that pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats.
- Savory Umami Boost – A splash of soy sauce or tamari instead of salt adds an unexpected depth that blends beautifully with the tangy vinegar and fresh dill.
- Creamy But Light – If you love the creamy version but want to avoid heavy dairy, swap sour cream for a dollop of Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon juice. It adds richness without overpowering the crispness.
- Crispy Add-Ins – Toss in toasted mustard seeds or crushed roasted peanuts right before serving. The added texture and mild nuttiness complement the salad’s bright flavors.
- Spicy German Fusion – A finely chopped fermented chili (like German Senf-Chili) or just a dash of chili oil will transform this into a next-level side for bold dishes.
- Japanese-German Twist – Swap the traditional vinegar for a mix of rice vinegar and a hint of mirin for a subtle sweetness and depth. A sprinkle of furikake can also add a lovely umami crunch.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
