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Fresh German Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Vinegar and Sugar Dressing

fresh german cucumber salad - featured image

A simple, refreshing German cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a sweet and tangy vinegar and sugar dressing. Perfect as a light side dish for summer meals or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers (English or Kirby preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar (45 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • ½ small yellow or red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends of the cucumbers. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them into thin rounds about ⅛ inch thick (3 mm).
  2. Thinly slice half a small onion into rings or half-moons. Rinse in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow sharpness if desired, then drain well.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar, granulated sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves completely. Add freshly ground black pepper if using.
  4. Add the cucumber slices and onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every slice.
  5. Chop fresh dill and sprinkle over the salad. Toss lightly to distribute.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 hour, to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Slice cucumbers thinly and evenly for best texture. Salt cucumbers lightly and drain excess water if you prefer a less watery salad. Whisk vinegar and sugar until sugar dissolves fully to avoid graininess. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Adjust sweetness and acidity to taste after chilling. Fresh dill is classic, but chives or parsley can be used as alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, German cucumber salad, vinegar and sugar dressing, easy cucumber salad, summer salad, quick salad, fresh cucumber salad