Refreshing Cucumber Salad
This salad is an absolute summer delight, offering the most refreshing experience on a scorching day. Its lightness and coolness make it the perfect accompaniment to grilled burgers, chicken, or pork chops.
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Originating from Germany, this salad holds a place of popularity in its home country. It comes in two delightful variations: one with a vinegar dressing and the other with a creamy dressing. Both versions have their own unique charm, but the recipe I’m sharing here is my personal favorite. Despite being a quick and easy salad to prepare, it doesn’t compromise on flavor. Moreover, this German version is also a healthy choice.
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The star of this salad is the hydrating cucumber, and what’s even better is that there’s no sour cream or mayonnaise in the recipe. As it gained immense popularity as a side dish, it found its way to the United States, winning hearts all around.
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In summary, this salad is a delicious blend of freshness and simplicity, making it an absolute must-have for any summer gathering or barbecue. Whether you choose the tangy vinegar dressing or the creamy variation, you’re in for a treat that is both satisfying and healthy. So, get ready to savor the goodness of this German classic and elevate your summer dining experience to a whole new level.
What do you need for Cucumber Salad:
| INGREDIENTS | MEASUREMENTS |
|---|---|
| English cucumbers | 2 (sliced thin) |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Red onion | (sliced thin) |
| White vinegar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh dill, chopped fine | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
FIRST STEP:
- Place the sliced cucumbers into a bowl
- Add salt and toss lightly
SECOND STEP:
- Leat sweat for 30 minutes
- Drain liquid and add in the sliced red onion
THIRD STEP:
- In a pot over high heat, combine the sugar, water and the Stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cool the dressing
FOURTH STEP:
- Pour over the cucumbers and onions when it is cooled
- Sprinkle the fresh chopped dill in and toss to combine
FIFTH STEP:
- Cover and refrigerate to combine all the flavors, about one hour
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips:
Serve as a side dish with grilled meat or meatloaf and potatoes. This makes a refreshing salad to eat alone also. The creamy version of this salad would have the dressing made with sour cream or mayonnaise.
FAQs
Q: How long does this cucumber salad stay fresh? A: When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this cucumber salad can stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. However, it is best enjoyed within the first day or two for the ultimate crispness.
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers? A: Yes, you can use regular cucumbers if English cucumbers are not available. However, English cucumbers are preferred for their thinner skin and fewer seeds, which enhances the texture of the salad.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing? A: Absolutely! The sweetness of the dressing can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less sugar to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Q: Is it necessary to slice the cucumbers thin? A: Slicing the cucumbers thin allows for better absorption of the flavors from the dressing, resulting in a more flavorful salad. However, you can adjust the thickness according to your personal preference.
Q: Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the salad? A: Yes, you can get creative with this cucumber salad by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or fresh herbs like mint or parsley. These additions can bring new dimensions of flavor to the salad.
Q: Can I make the salad in advance for a party or gathering? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance for a party or gathering. However, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crisp texture and fresh taste.
Q: Is this cucumber salad suitable for vegans? A: Yes, this cucumber salad is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products or by-products.
Q: Can I use alternative sweeteners instead of granulated sugar? A: Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternative sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Q: Can I use rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar? A: While white vinegar is commonly used in this recipe, you can experiment with rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile. The taste will be altered, but it can still be delicious.
Q: Can I make a larger batch for a crowd? A: Certainly! You can easily scale up the recipe to make a larger batch to serve a crowd at gatherings or parties. Just ensure to maintain the right balance of flavors when adjusting the dressing ingredients.
Q: Can I store any leftover dressing separately? A: Yes, if you have leftover dressing, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just shake or stir it well before using it again.
Q: Is this cucumber salad suitable for people with gluten intolerance? A: Yes, this cucumber salad is gluten-free and safe for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Q: Can I add some spice to the salad? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced chili peppers to the salad. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Q: Can I serve this cucumber salad with grilled fish or seafood? A: Yes, this refreshing cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or seafood dishes. Its light and tangy flavors complement the richness of the fish or seafood.
Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill? A: While fresh dill provides the best flavor, you can use dried dill if fresh is not available. Keep in mind that dried dill is more potent, so use it sparingly.
Q: Can I make the salad less tangy by reducing the amount of vinegar? A: Yes, if you prefer a milder tang, you can reduce the amount of vinegar in the dressing. Just remember to balance it with a little extra water and sugar to maintain the desired sweetness.
Q: Can I serve this salad as a main course? A: While this cucumber salad is traditionally served as a side dish, you can add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to turn it into a light and refreshing main course salad.
Q: Can I use sea salt or kosher salt instead of regular salt? A: Yes, you can use sea salt or kosher salt as a substitute for regular salt. The choice of salt will not significantly impact the overall flavor of the salad.
