This classic German cucumber salad is cool, creamy, and refreshing, making it a perfect side dish for warm days or hearty meals. Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions are gently salted, then dressed in a tangy, creamy sauce with fresh dill for a simple yet deeply satisfying flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses simple, everyday ingredients
The texture is crisp yet creamy
It’s refreshing and light, perfect for summer
It pairs well with many main dishes
It can be made ahead and tastes even better chilled
The balance of salt, vinegar, and cream is comforting and traditional
No cooking required
Naturally vegetarian
Easy to customize with small flavor tweaks
A timeless recipe with homemade charm
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 to 4 medium cucumbers (about 8 cups), thinly sliced
1 large white onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons vinegar
1 cup heavy whipping cream or sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
Directions
Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a large bowl.
Add the thinly sliced onion to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Sprinkle the salt evenly over the cucumbers and onions.
Let the mixture sit for about 2 hours, until a large amount of liquid is released and nearly covers the vegetables.
Drain the liquid and rinse the cucumbers and onions thoroughly with cold water. Taste and rinse again if the mixture is still too salty.
Drain well and return the cucumbers and onions to the bowl.
Add the heavy whipping cream or sour cream, vinegar, and chopped fresh dill.
Stir gently until everything is well combined.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Variations
Replace heavy whipping cream with sour cream for a tangier flavor
Add a pinch of sugar to balance the vinegar if desired
Use apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a fruitier note
Add finely ground black pepper for mild heat
Include thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch
Use dried dill if fresh is unavailable, reducing the amount to 2 teaspoons
Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving, as the dressing may thin slightly over time. This salad is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Do I have to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color and texture.
Why do the cucumbers need to sit with salt?
Salting draws out excess moisture, preventing the salad from becoming watery.
Can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream?
Yes, sour cream works very well and gives a tangier taste.
Is this salad supposed to be watery?
No, draining and rinsing the cucumbers removes excess liquid before adding the dressing.
Can I add sugar to this recipe?
A small pinch of sugar can be added if you prefer a slightly sweet balance.
How thin should the cucumbers be sliced?
Very thin slices are best, ideally using a mandoline for even results.
Can I use red onion instead of white onion?
Yes, but it will slightly change the flavor and color of the salad.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is completely vegetarian.
Conclusion
German cucumber salad is a simple, refreshing dish that highlights fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. With its creamy dressing and crisp texture, it’s an easy recipe that delivers comfort and freshness in every bite, making it a dependable favorite for any table.
This German cucumber salad is a cool, creamy, and tangy side dish made with thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and a dill-infused sour cream or cream-based dressing. It’s refreshing, simple to prepare, and perfect for warm-weather meals or hearty comfort dishes.
Ingredients
2 to 4 medium cucumbers (about 8 cups), thinly sliced
1 large white onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons vinegar
1 cup heavy whipping cream or sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
Instructions
Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large bowl.
Add the thinly sliced onion to the cucumbers.
Sprinkle the salt evenly over the mixture and toss to combine.
Let sit for about 2 hours until the vegetables release a significant amount of liquid.
Drain the liquid and rinse the cucumbers and onions thoroughly with cold water. Repeat if still too salty.
Drain well and return to the bowl.
Add the vinegar, heavy cream or sour cream, and chopped dill.
Stir gently to combine evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Sour cream offers a tangier flavor than heavy cream.
Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if desired.
Use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
Thinly sliced radishes can add extra crunch.
Use a mandoline for consistent, thin cucumber slices.
