5 Minute Summer Salad: Finnish Cucumber Salad – Kurkkusalaatti

A refreshing side dish perfect for summer, Finnish cucumber salad or kurkkusalaatti takes 5 minutes to make and last a week in the fridge!

Summer eating is all about farm fresh fruits and vegetables and easy cooking because no one wants to be around a hot stove.

It’s times like these that looking to our friends in Nordic countries makes a whole lot of sense, they understand balance and have delicious food.

I love Finnish food. It’s simple, clean and always a crowd pleaser because it’s familiar ingredients just down a bit differently.

And cucumber is so refreshing, it’s why this Cucumber Mule recipe is so popular.

And bonus, this salad uses a lot of dill, which is perfect for summer.

Finnish Cucumber Salad

Kurkkusalaatti is a refreshing and tangy dish that is so simple but everyone loves it.

It is an easy recipe made with thinly sliced cucumbers, fresh dill and a simple vinegar-based dressing. This salad is popular in Finland and is often served as a side dish.

We usually know pickled cucumbers, as well…pickles. But quick pickled cucumbers are a nice twist to the old favorite bread and butter pickles.

And they are more commonly used around the world:

• Germany has gurkensalat, a cucumber dill salad
• Sweden has pressgurka, cucumber in a sweet marinade with dill
• Japan’s sunomono uses a sweet rice vinegar dressing, sometimes including seaweed
• China has pai huang gua, a smashed cucumber salad with a savory dressing made from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and sesame oil.
• Vietnam is famous for its quick pickled cucumber brightening up so many meals.

How to Make Kurkkusalaatti

Traditionally Finnish cucumber salad uses very thin cucumbers. Some people uses mandolin slicer for even slices but I think using a knife for rustic slices is much easier for summer.

Mix together white vinegar, water, granulated white sugar, salt and freshly chopped dill.

Taste first and adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste, balancing the sweetness and tanginess.

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to combine.

Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

Ingredient Note: Although you can use any salt, I recommend sea salt and especially grey Celtic sea salt.

It sounds fancy but it’s very inexpensive on Amazon and it make everything taste 100 times better.

Want the Crunchiest Cucumber Salad?

If you love crunchy cucumbers before you follow the recipe take this initial step: put the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkling them with salt.

Let it sit 30 minutes to draws out excess water, Then pat them dry and add the vinegar mixture.

Cucumber Dill Salad Variations

Although it is not the traditional Finnish recipe this is a versatile dish. Add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced chilis for some heat.

Or include thinly sliced red onions for an extra layer of flavor. Feta is also a great salty cheese to add to the cucumbers.

You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, like apple cider or rice vinegar.

How To Use Pickled Cucumber Salad

Kurkkusalaatti can be used in many creative ways:

• It is a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. Its acidity can brighten up rich, hearty dishes.
• You can also use it as a topping for sandwiches and burgers. The crisp cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
• Finish cucumber salad gives a bright extra flavor and texture. It can be mixed into a green salad or served alongside potato salad.
• Blend the salad with some yogurt and herbs for a quick and easy cold soup.
• It can also be added to tacos for a fresh and crunchy element.
• You can also add it to a grain bowl for extra texture and flavor. Combine it with quinoa, roasted vegetables and a protein of your choice.
• Another creative use is to mix kurkkusalaatti into a dip. Blend it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, creamy dip. Serve it with pita bread, crackers or fresh vegetables. It’s a great way to add a burst of flavor to your appetizers. It also goes well in this Greek tzatziki.

Kurkkusalaatti is also a perfect picnic or potluck. It is easy to make and transport. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, which is always a plus.

Pin it For Later: Finnish Cucumber Dill Salad