Gurkensalat(Cucumber Salad)
A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy and creamy dressing, perfect as a cooling side dish or relish for light meals and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the cucumber so that a little of the green rind remains. Slice paper-thin.
- Sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt, sugar, and vinegar. Let it sit or marinate for 15 minutes.
- Drain off any liquid that has accumulated.
- Toss the cucumber slices with sour cream (if using).
- Sprinkle with minced parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding thinly sliced red onion or radishes to the salad. If you want a creamier texture without sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. Fresh dill can also be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste, especially if you prefer a sweeter or tangier salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Gurkensalat alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. It pairs beautifully with **Springerli for a delightful meal. This salad can also be a great addition to a picnic or barbecue, offering a cool contrast to richer dishes like Oven Pancake(Finnish Pancake).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad may become watery as it sits, so it's best to drain off excess liquid before serving again. To refresh the flavors, consider tossing it lightly with additional vinegar or herbs when ready to eat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gurkensalat(Cucumber Salad) contains roughly 30 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1794mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of vinegar for this salad?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or rice vinegar, to create a unique flavor. Each will bring its own distinct tanginess to the dish, so feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?
Peeling the cucumber is optional and depends on your preference. Leaving some of the green rind adds color and a bit of bitterness, which can enhance the overall flavor of the salad. If you're using organic cucumbers, you might choose to leave the skin on for added nutrients.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this Gurkensalat vegan, simply omit the sour cream or substitute it with a plant-based yogurt. You can also enhance the creaminess by adding mashed avocado or a cashew cream. The other ingredients in the salad are naturally vegan, making it easy to adapt.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).