Description
This German Cucumber Salad, or Gurkensalat, is a refreshing and light dish. It features thinly sliced cucumbers and fresh dill in a zesty sweet and sour dressing. Perfect for summer, this low-carb and keto-friendly salad pairs well with heavier meals like schnitzel or grilled chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium Cucumbers (English cucumbers preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Dill (Add more for garnish if desired)
- 1 cup Hot Water (For dissolving sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons Granular Sweetener (Adjust based on taste)
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (White vinegar can be used as substitute)
Instructions
- Peel the cucumbers if desired, then trim the ends and slice them thinly, using a mandolin or a sharp knife for even pieces. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness for the best texture.
- In a medium bowl, place your sliced cucumbers and sprinkle in the chopped fresh dill. The dill not only adds flavor but also an aromatic essence that elevates the dish.
- In a separate bowl, stir hot water with the granular sweetener until fully dissolved. Once smooth, add the apple cider vinegar, mixing well to create that delicious tangy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours—or, for even better results, overnight—to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to keep those cucumbers submerged!
- When you’re ready to serve, use tongs or a slotted spoon to scoop out the German cucumber salad. Enjoy the delightful crunch and refreshing taste that makes this dish truly special. Optional: Garnish with extra dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Marinate the German cucumber salad overnight for the best flavor; this helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing fully.
- Aim for cucumbers sliced to about 1/8 inch; thinner slices enhance texture and allow the tangy dressing to soak in, making each bite delightful.
- Adjust the sugar-to-vinegar ratio to suit your taste; a 2:1 ratio gives a more sour profile perfect for a refreshing German Cucumber Salad.
- While fresh dill is traditional for this German cucumber salad, feel free to explore with parsley or chives for different flavor notes.
- Serve the German cucumber salad cold to maintain its refreshing quality, especially during hot summer gatherings.
- Store leftover German cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended for this German cucumber salad, as the cucumbers’ texture will suffer once thawed, becoming mushy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg