Mizeria (Classic Polish Cucumber Salad)
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Gluten-free Polish

Mizeria (Classic Polish Cucumber Salad)

A classic Polish cucumber salad of crisp, lightly salted cucumbers folded with tangy sour cream, dill, and a touch of vinegar. Serve it chilled as a refreshing counterpoint to roast meats, potatoes, or hearty grains.

25 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and leave over a bowl for 15 minutes. The slices should release visible moisture while remaining firm.
2
Meanwhile, whisk the cold sour cream, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Keep the dressing chilled while the cucumbers drain.
3
Rinse the cucumbers briefly under cold water, then press and pat them dry with a clean towel. In a small saucepan, bring the vinegar to a gentle simmer for 30 seconds, then remove it from the heat and let it cool. This removes excess cucumber salt while briefly mellowing the vinegar.
Salted cucumber slices being drained and dried before dressing AI-generated image
4
Transfer the cucumbers to a serving bowl, pour over the sour cream dressing and cooled vinegar, and fold in the chopped dill. Mix gently until every slice is coated without bruising the cucumbers.
5
Cover and chill for at least 20 minutes, then taste and adjust the acidity or salt if needed. Serve cold, with a little extra dill scattered over the top.
Finished mizeria cucumber salad with sour cream and fresh dill AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Salting draws excess water from the cucumbers, allowing the sour cream dressing to cling instead of becoming diluted. Vinegar brightens the rich dairy base, while dill supplies the unmistakably fresh Polish character.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate in a covered container for up to 24 hours. The cucumbers will soften and release some liquid over time; stir before serving.

How to reheat it

Do not reheat. Serve cold or briefly bring to cool room temperature before serving.

Nutrition / serving

113kcal
2.27 gprotein
7.83 gcarbs
8.30 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 20 Aug 2026 · updated 20 Aug 2026