Ever found yourself yearning for a refreshing, crunchy bite of nostalgia? Today, we’re unlocking the culinary vault and sharing an authentic and time-tested recipe for a German delight, the Refrigerator German Cucumber Salad.
This delectable dish is not only a well-loved summer side in Germany but also a cherished family recipe that will transport you back to your grandma’s kitchen with every bite.
Just before we dive into the details, make sure you bookmark this page so you can easily return to it. You’ll want to make this tangy, refreshing salad again and again, especially during those sizzling summer days.
The Refrigerator German Cucumber Salad: A Tale of History and Health
Originating from Germany, this salad, also known as Gurkensalat, is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavors. It is made from a few staple ingredients, most importantly cucumbers, and is bathed in a tangy dill vinaigrette.
This salad is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Cucumbers are hydrating, rich in vitamins, and low in calories. Adding them to your diet can help in weight management, promote hydration, and aid in digestion.
Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the ingredients for our German Cucumber Salad. For 4 servings, you’ll need:
- 2 large English cucumbers
- 1 medium white onion
- 1/4 cup of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of white vinegar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide to Making German Cucumber Salad in a Jar
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Thinly slice the cucumbers and onions. The slices should be thin enough to allow the dressing to penetrate and flavor them, but thick enough to maintain their crunch.
Step 2: Season the Cucumbers
In a large bowl, toss the cucumber slices with salt. Let them sit for about 20 minutes, then pat them dry to remove the excess water.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, granulated sugar, black pepper, and fresh dill until well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Salad in the Jars
First, distribute the dressing equally among the four jars. Then layer the cucumber and onion slices in the jars, packing them tightly while leaving some space at the top.
Step 5: Marinate
Seal the jars tightly and give them a gentle shake to distribute the dressing. Then, refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve
When you’re ready to serve, simply open the jar, give it a quick stir, and enjoy! You can eat the salad straight from the jar, or pour it into a bowl if you prefer.
Variations of the Classic German Cucumber Salad
While our recipe is a classic version, there are numerous regional variations of this German cucumber salad. Some prefer to use a creamy dressing made from sour cream or yogurt, while others might add in additional vegetables like radishes or tomatoes. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the combination that suits your palate!
German Cucumber Salad – A Perfect Summer Dish
The Refrigerator German Cucumber Salad, with its refreshing crunch and tangy bite, is a perfect summer dish. It’s light, hydrating, and can be made ahead of time. What’s more, it’s easy to scale up for large gatherings or picnics, making it a go-to recipe for all your summer get-togethers.
There you have it! The exact right recipe for the perfect Refrigerator German Cucumber Salad – a refreshing, easy-to-make dish that’s a delightful fusion of tanginess, sweetness, and crunchiness. This authentic German recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen, offering a tasty reminder of childhood memories in grandma’s kitchen.
