Name: Polish Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 1 cucumber, sliced very thin; ⅓ cup sour cream; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill; 1 tablespoon vinegar (e.g., red wine vinegar)

Polish Cucumber Salad is a beloved classic that brings a burst of refreshing crunch and creamy tang to your table, making it the ultimate companion for any summer meal. With its roots in Polish kitchens and its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this salad — also called Mizeria — is all about celebrating fresh cucumbers, aromatic herbs, and luscious sour cream. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a cozy lunch, or just as a quick snack, this salad delights with every cool, herby bite.

Polish Cucumber Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about how just a handful of ingredients can create a dish as memorable as Polish Cucumber Salad. Each one plays a special part in bringing out the crunchy, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors that make this salad irresistible.

Cucumber: The star of the show! Choose a firm, fresh cucumber and slice it paper-thin for the most satisfying crunch.
Sour cream (or kefir): This brings a creamy, tangy richness to the salad — feel free to use as much or as little as you like, or swap in kefir for a lighter, slightly tart flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch draws out the cucumber juices and helps all the flavors mingle beautifully.
Chives: Finely chopped chives add a gentle oniony note that brightens the salad without overpowering it.
Dill: Nothing says “fresh” quite like a sprinkle of dill, which enhances the garden flavors and adds a touch of grassy green color.
Vinegar: A splash of vinegar (red wine or your favorite kind) sharpens the flavors and cuts through the creaminess for the perfect balance.

How to Make Polish Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by giving your cucumber a good rinse under cold water and drying it with a towel. Cut off the ends, then slice it as thinly as possible. If you have a mandolin, now’s the time to use it! The key is getting wafer-thin slices that turn every forkful into a juicy, delicate bite.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your sour cream (or kefir), salt, finely chopped chives, dill, and a tablespoon of vinegar. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and fragrant — you’ll notice the herbs release a wonderful aroma as you blend them in.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Add your sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together until each cucumber slice is coated in creamy goodness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then enjoy immediately for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Polish Cucumber Salad

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of extra fresh dill right before serving not only makes Polish Cucumber Salad look gorgeous but also adds a final aromatic flourish. If you want even more color, try a dusting of freshly ground black pepper or a few delicate chive blossoms.

Side Dishes

This salad is a natural companion to hearty mains like sizzling grilled kielbasa, pierogi, or roasted meats. It’s equally at home next to grilled fish, a fluffy omelet, or earthy potato dishes — the creamy, cool cucumbers complement almost anything savory.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-friendly twist, spoon Polish Cucumber Salad into small glass jars or bowls for individual servings. Or, layer it over crisp rye bread for a quick and beautiful open-faced sandwich. You can even top your favorite green salad with a scoop for extra creaminess and crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, just cover and refrigerate the salad in an airtight container. Polish Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed within a day, as the cucumbers will soften and release more liquid over time. It will still taste great, but the texture is most vibrant when fresh.

Freezing

This is one salad that doesn’t take kindly to freezing, as cucumbers are mostly water and become mushy when thawed. It’s best to make what you’ll eat in one or two sittings to keep that signature crispness.

Reheating

No reheating required! Polish Cucumber Salad is meant to be served chilled, straight from the fridge. If it’s been sitting a while, give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt makes a delicious, slightly tangier alternative to sour cream and keeps things on the lighter side. Just use it in place of sour cream in the same amount.

Should I peel the cucumbers first?

This really comes down to personal preference and the type of cucumber you use. If the skin is thin and tender, leave it on for extra color and crunch. For thicker-skinned or waxed cucumbers, peeling is a good idea.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs?

While tradition keeps things simple, you can definitely get creative! Radishes, thin-sliced onions, or fresh parsley all mingle beautifully in Polish Cucumber Salad and add extra punch or color.

How long does Polish Cucumber Salad last in the fridge?

It keeps well for about 24 hours in the refrigerator. After that, the cucumbers start to lose their firmness and the salad becomes more watery, but the flavor remains pleasant for up to two days.

Is Polish Cucumber Salad gluten-free?

Yes, Polish Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty choice for anyone sensitive to gluten or following a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give Polish Cucumber Salad a spot at your next meal — it’s such a bright, nostalgic treat that truly brightens up any table. Once you taste how quickly it comes together and how refreshing it is, it might just become your new favorite summer salad!