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This traditional german cucumber salad recipe is known in Germany as Gurkensalat. Furthermore, it is one of the most classic side dishes in German home cooking. It is simple, fresh and versatile. In fact, I grew up eating this salad alongside Schnitzel every week. Additionally, the secret to a perfect Gurkensalat is salting the cucumbers first. This keeps the dressing creamy instead of watery. In short, this is the authentic German way. It makes all the difference.

The History of Gurkensalat

Cucumber salad has been part of German home cooking for generations. Furthermore, every region in Germany has its own slight variation. In the south, sour cream is traditional. In the north, some families use vinegar and oil instead. Additionally, fresh dill is the classic herb. Parsley works well too. In short, Gurkensalat is one of those simple dishes that every German cook knows by heart.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

For this recipe you need a → sharp mandoline slicer — very thin cucumber slices are essential for the authentic texture. Additionally, a → fine mesh sieve is perfect for draining the salted cucumbers thoroughly.

Traditional German Cucumber Salad (Gurkensalat)

Prep time: 15 minutes Rest time: 15 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Print Recipe
Servings: 4 People
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Germany
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • ¼ small onion very finely diced
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Slice the cucumbers. Peel the cucumbers in alternating strips. Slice into very thin rounds — a mandoline slicer works best.
  2. Salt the cucumbers. Place the slices in a bowl and lightly salt them. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess water.
  3. Drain. Transfer the cucumbers to a fine sieve and drain thoroughly.
  4. Make the dressing. In a bowl mix sour cream, mustard, dill and pepper.
  5. Combine. Add the drained cucumbers and finely diced onion to the dressing. Mix gently.
  6. Taste and adjust. Do not add more salt without tasting first — the cucumbers already contain salt from step 2.
  7. Chill and serve. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Notes

Always salt the cucumbers first — this is the most important step. Slice as thinly as possible for the authentic German texture. The salad tastes even better after 30 minutes in the fridge. Pairs perfectly with Schnitzel, grilled meats or boiled potatoes.

What to serve with Gurkensalat

This german cucumber salad recipe is the perfect companion to many classic German dishes. Furthermore, it pairs beautifully with crispy Schnitzel — the cool creamy dressing balances the rich fried meat perfectly. Additionally, try it alongside boiled potatoes or grilled sausages. In Germany, Gurkensalat is also a classic part of a traditional Brotzeit — a cold German supper with bread, cold cuts and cheese.

Looking for more traditional German salads? Browse my German Salads collection.

Learn more about German cuisine on Wikipedia.