This Cucumber Yogurt Salad is everything you love about tzatziki, transformed into a light and refreshing side dish! Crisp cucumbers, creamy Greek yogurt, fragrant dill, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic come together for a simple yet incredibly flavorful salad. It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, or any meal that needs a cool and tangy balance.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Bright & Refreshing: The cool, crisp cucumbers pair perfectly with the creamy, tangy dressing.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it an effortless side dish for any meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or spicy dishes for a balanced bite.
- Healthy & Light: Made with wholesome ingredients, this salad is both nutritious and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 English cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or plain yogurt of choice)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 lemon (zested and juiced, about 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
How to Make Cucumber Yogurt Salad
- Slice the Cucumbers: Use a mandoline, food processor, or sharp knife to slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, dill, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper.
- Combine & Toss: Place the cucumbers in a mixing bowl and drizzle with the dressing. Toss well to coat.
- Serve or Chill: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for a deeper flavor.
Tip: For a fun presentation, try spiralizing the cucumbers into ribbons and cutting them into bite-sized pieces!
Customization Ideas
- Switch Up the Cucumbers: Use Persian, Lebanese, or field cucumbers (peel and remove seeds if using field cucumbers).
- Add More Crunch: Thinly sliced radishes or red onions add a nice bite.
- Try Different Herbs: Substitute dill with fresh parsley, chives, or mint for a unique twist.
- Boost the Creaminess: Add a spoonful of sour cream or crumbled feta for extra richness.
What to Serve It With
This salad is a fantastic side dish for:
- Grilled meats & seafood: Pairs beautifully with chicken kebabs, lamb chops, salmon, and shrimp.
- Spicy dishes: Cools down rich, spicy flavors like shawarma or curries.
- Mediterranean favorites: A perfect complement to hummus, pita bread, and falafel.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- The dressing can be made in advance and stored separately. Toss everything together just before serving for the best texture.
How long does it last in the fridge?
- Once mixed, it’s best eaten immediately or within 30 minutes. If stored longer, the cucumbers may release water and lose their crunch.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
- If using English or Persian cucumbers, no peeling is needed! If using field cucumbers, peel and remove seeds for the best texture.
Enjoy this Cucumber Yogurt Salad as a light and flavorful addition to your meal! Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, this creamy, refreshing salad is always a crowd-pleaser.