Refreshing German Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
Experience the vibrant flavors of Germany with this refreshing Cucumber Salad, perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish. This salad features crunchy cucumbers, crisp green onions, and juicy tomatoes, all tossed in a creamy dressing made with sour cream, fresh dill, and a hint of tangy mustard. The combination of fresh herbs adds a delightful aroma and flavor that is both indulgent and nutritious without being sweet. This traditional recipe, inspired by a lovely inn in Germany, is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that will keep your guests coming back for more. Serve chilled to amplify its refreshing qualities, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or sandwiches.
6
Servings
50
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumbers
2 (medium, peeled and sliced thin)
Green onions
4 (sliced thin (both white and green parts))
Tomatoes
3 (small, sliced)
Fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (snipped)
Sour cream
1/4 cup
Prepared mustard
1/4 teaspoon
Fresh dill
2 tablespoons (minced (or 1 tsp. dried))
White vinegar
1 tablespoon
Milk
1 tablespoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the vegetables: peel and slice the cucumbers thinly; slice the green onions, using both the white and green parts; and slice the tomatoes into wedges.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, green onions, tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Toss lightly to combine.
3
In a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy dressing by whisking together the sour cream, prepared mustard, minced dill, white vinegar, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4
Pour the dressing over the cucumber salad mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and add an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
5.8g
Carbs
1.2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is German Cucumber Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing?
It is a traditional, refreshing side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and green onions tossed in a savory dressing made from sour cream, fresh dill, and vinegar.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the salad?
The main components are 2 medium cucumbers, 4 green onions, 3 small tomatoes, and fresh parsley.
What ingredients are used in the creamy dressing?
The dressing consists of sour cream, prepared mustard, minced fresh dill, white vinegar, milk, salt, and pepper.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
Yes, the recipe recommends peeling the cucumbers and slicing them thinly for the best texture.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Yes, if you do not have fresh dill, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of dried dill.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
The salad should be covered and placed in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
What is the calorie count for this salad?
Each serving contains approximately 50 calories.
Is this cucumber salad sweet?
No, this is a savory recipe that emphasizes fresh herbs and tangy mustard rather than sweetness.
What type of mustard should be used?
The recipe calls for a simple prepared mustard, which adds a subtle tang to the creamy dressing.
How do I prepare the green onions?
You should slice the green onions thinly, using both the white and the green parts.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
While the recipe specifies sour cream for authenticity, Greek yogurt can often be used as a healthier substitute with a similar tang.
What is the fat content of this dish?
This salad contains approximately 2.5g of fat per serving.
Is there a specific way to slice the tomatoes?
The instructions suggest slicing the small tomatoes into wedges before adding them to the salad.
Why is milk included in the dressing recipe?
A tablespoon of milk is used to help thin the sour cream and mustard mixture into a smooth, pourable dressing.
What should I serve with German Cucumber Salad?
It is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light side for summer gatherings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it an hour or two in advance is recommended, though cucumbers may release water if left too long.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides about 1.2g of protein.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While white vinegar provides a sharp tang, apple cider vinegar can be used for a slightly milder, fruitier flavor.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are approximately 5.8g of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I toss the salad again before serving?
Yes, give the salad a gentle toss just before serving to redistribute the dressing that may have settled.
Can I add extra herbs?
Absolutely, you can add an extra sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley before serving for added aroma.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your mustard and sour cream labels to be certain.
What gives the salad its refreshing quality?
The combination of chilled cucumbers, fresh dill, and a light vinegar-based dressing makes it very refreshing.
How many green onions do I need?
The recipe calls for 4 green onions.
Is this salad high in sodium?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt for 6 servings, making it relatively moderate in sodium.
Can I use large tomatoes instead of small ones?
Yes, you can use large tomatoes; just ensure they are sliced into bite-sized pieces or wedges.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best consumed within 24 hours.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, with only 11 ingredients and simple chopping and whisking steps, it is very beginner-friendly.