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+ servings
German cucumber salad in a large glass bowl.

German Cucumber Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Also known as Gurkensalat, this German cucumber salad is simple, refreshing, and delicious—a perfect summer side dish!

Ingredients

  • 2 to 4 medium cucumbers, about 8 cups, thinly sliced
  • 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons white vinegar
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped

Instructions

  • Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Slice the white onion thinly and add it to the same bowl with the cucumbers.
  • Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the cucumbers and onions. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until the cucumbers release enough liquid to almost cover them.
  • Drain the cucumbers and onion thoroughly, then rinse with cold water to remove excess salt. Taste a cucumber slice to check the saltiness; rinse again if needed.
  • Add the white vinegar, heavy whipping cream or sour cream, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl with the drained cucumbers and onions. Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.