Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers

Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers, also known as “Sour Cream Cucumbers,” are a classic, cool, and creamy side dish hailing from traditional Amish and Mennonite kitchens. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers in a sweet-and-tangy sour cream dressing, this refreshing salad is light, simple, and packed with nostalgic flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This old-fashioned cucumber salad is delightfully crisp, creamy, and comforting. It’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients and no cooking required. The balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creamy texture makes it a versatile side dish for everything from grilled meats to hearty casseroles. Whether you’re craving something traditional or just need a quick, cool salad, this recipe delivers every time.

ingredients

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

• Cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably English or pickling cucumbers)
• Sour cream
• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh dill or chives (optional, for garnish)
• Onion, thinly sliced (optional)

directions

1. Thinly slice cucumbers and, if using, onions. Place them in a colander and sprinkle with a bit of salt to draw out excess moisture. Let sit for 20–30 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the cucumbers (and onions, if using) to the dressing and stir gently to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Garnish with fresh dill or chives before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 30–60 minutes (for salting and chilling)
Total time: 40–70 minutes

Variations

• Add Onion: Thinly sliced sweet or red onions add extra bite and depth.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute some or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon or yellow mustard adds a tangy twist.
• Herb Variations: Try parsley, tarragon, or basil instead of dill.
• German-Style: Add a touch of garlic and more vinegar for a sharper flavor.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Note: The cucumbers will continue to release moisture as they sit, so stir before serving and drain excess liquid if needed.

No reheating is needed—this is a cold salad meant to be enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

What are Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers?

They are a traditional Amish-style cucumber salad made with sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings, often served cold as a side dish.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. It’s best when chilled for at least 30 minutes, and it can be made up to a day in advance.

Do I need to peel the cucumbers?

Peeling is optional. English cucumbers have thin skin and can be left unpeeled, while thicker-skinned varieties may benefit from peeling.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative to white vinegar and adds a subtle fruity flavor.

Why do I salt the cucumbers first?

Salting helps draw out water from the cucumbers, which prevents the dressing from becoming watery and keeps the salad crisp.

Can I use low-fat sour cream?

Yes, low-fat or even nonfat sour cream can be used, but full-fat offers the creamiest texture and richest flavor.

What should I serve this with?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, baked ham, or even as a picnic side dish.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! Radishes, carrots, or bell peppers can add color and crunch.

How do I keep the cucumbers crisp?

Salting and draining them first helps maintain their crunch. Serve the salad shortly after assembling for best texture.

Is this salad sweet or tangy?

It’s a perfect blend of both—mildly sweet from the sugar and tangy from the vinegar and sour cream.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania Dutch Cucumbers are a timeless, cool, and creamy side dish that’s both refreshing and comforting. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this nostalgic salad in minutes. Whether served at a summer BBQ, Sunday dinner, or alongside a hearty meal, this cucumber salad brings a delicious touch of tradition to your table.

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