Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers

Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers is a traditional, refreshing side dish featuring crisp cucumbers and onions enveloped in a tangy, creamy dressing. This simple yet flavorful salad is a staple in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, offering a delightful balance of sweet and sour notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and Light: The crispness of fresh cucumbers combined with a tangy dressing makes for a perfect palate cleanser.​12 Tomatoes+1YouTube+1
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together effortlessly.​
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to hearty stews.​YouTube+1teriskitchen.com+1
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors meld and intensify when allowed to marinate, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Small cucumbers​My Homemade Roots+4Taste of Home+4Punchfork+4
• Salt​
• Medium onion​My Homemade Roots+312 Tomatoes+3Taste of Home+3
• Sour cream​My Homemade Roots
• White vinegar​YouTube+1Food.com+1
• Minced chives​Punchfork
• Dill seed​My Homemade Roots+212 Tomatoes+2Punchfork+2
• Black pepper​12 Tomatoes+1Punchfork+1
• Sugar​My Homemade Roots+1Reddit+1
• Lettuce leaves (optional)​Food.com+3Punchfork+312 Tomatoes+3
• Tomato slices (optional)​12 Tomatoes+1Punchfork+1

Directions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Peel and thinly slice the cucumbers. Place them in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 2 hours. This process helps draw out excess moisture. Afterward, rinse the cucumbers under cold water and pat them dry.​
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sliced cucumbers and thinly sliced onion rings.​My Homemade Roots+4YouTube+4Taste of Home+4
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, white vinegar, minced chives, dill seed, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar until well combined.​12 Tomatoes+1Punchfork+1
4. Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.​
5. Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for several hours, preferably overnight. Serve chilled, optionally over lettuce leaves and garnished with tomato slices.​12 Tomatoes

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.​
• Preparation Time: About 15 minutes.​
• Resting Time: At least 2 hours for salting the cucumbers, plus additional chilling time for enhanced flavor.​

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or parsley for an extra burst of herbal freshness.​
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences, creating a sweeter or more tangy profile.​
• Creamy Alternative: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier and protein-rich dressing.​
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers for added crunch and color.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If it has been refrigerated, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.​

FAQs

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Salting the cucumber slices and allowing them to sit helps draw out excess moisture, preventing a watery salad. Ensure you rinse and pat them dry thoroughly before combining with other ingredients.​My Homemade Roots

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of small ones?

Yes, larger cucumbers can be used. If they have thick skins or large seeds, consider peeling and seeding them for the best texture.​

Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. While it can be served immediately, refrigerating for several hours or overnight is recommended.​

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a plant-based sour cream.​My Homemade Roots

What dishes pair well with Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers?

This salad complements grilled meats, roasted chicken, or traditional dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst.​

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced radishes, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes can add color and additional flavor.​

How long can I store the leftovers?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad remains fresh for up to 3 days.​

Is there a substitute for white vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used as alternatives, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile.​

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, preparing it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just ensure it’s stored properly in the refrigerator.​

Why is sugar added to the dressing?

Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and the tanginess of the sour cream, creating a harmonious flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.​

Conclusion

Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers is a timeless, versatile dish that brings a refreshing and tangy element to any meal. Its simplicity, combined with the delightful blend of flavors, makes it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re exploring traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine or simply seeking a new side dish, this cucumber salad is sure to please. Enjoy the crisp textures and harmonious flavors that have stood the test of time.

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