Imagine a cool, creamy salad that captures the essence of Nordic simplicity and freshness - welcome to Kurkkusalaatti, the Finnish cucumber sour cream salad that's about to become your new favorite side dish! This incredibly easy recipe takes humble cucumbers and transforms them into a luxurious, tangy delight that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or as a sophisticated accompaniment to any main course, this salad is a testament to how just a few simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Finnish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers into uniform, translucent rounds. Aim for slices approximately 1/8 inch thick for optimal texture.
- Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which will help prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Gently pat the cucumber slices dry using clean paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove the released moisture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, freshly chopped dill, and lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
- Pour the sour cream mixture over the cucumber slices and gently fold to ensure even coating.
- Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing carefully to distribute the seasoning.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers with thin skins for the best texture and flavor. English or Persian cucumbers work wonderfully.
- Salt technique matters: The 5-minute salting step is crucial - it helps remove excess water and prevents a watery salad. Don't skip this step!
- Slice with precision: Aim for uniform, thin slices (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even flavor distribution and an elegant presentation.
- Chill for enhanced flavor: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Patience pays off!
- Fresh dill is a game-changer: Use fresh dill whenever possible for the most vibrant flavor. If fresh isn't available, dried can work, but the taste won't be as bright.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Don't be afraid to play with the salt, pepper, and lemon juice until the flavor profile is perfect for your palate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
