As the sun starts to warm the days, there’s nothing quite like a crisp, cool salad to refresh your palate. This Cucumber Yogurt Salad is a staple in my kitchen during the warmer months, inspired by the flavors of Greek tzatziki and my love for fresh, fuss-free food. My grandmother used to whip this up when cucumbers overflowed from the garden, always served with grilled meats or tucked into pita sandwiches.
Light, bright, and ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is everything you need in a go-to summer side dish. It’s also a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce in a healthy, delicious form.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Yogurt Salad
- Quick and Easy – Just 10 minutes and a few fresh ingredients.
- Cool and Creamy – Perfect for hot summer days.
- Healthy and Vegetarian – With Greek yogurt, olive oil, and cucumbers.
- Versatile – Serve with grilled meats, wraps, or as a dip.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet flavorful dish:
- 2 English cucumbers
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or plain yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ lemon, zested and juiced (approx. 1 tablespoon juice)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste (I recommend pink Himalayan or sea salt)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Slice the Cucumbers
Thinly slice the cucumbers using:
- A mandoline for ultra-thin slices
- A food processor with a slice attachment
- The slicing side of a box grater
- Or a sharp knife
2. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine:
- Greek yogurt
- Dill
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Lemon zest and juice
- Salt and pepper
3. Toss Together
In a mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and the yogurt dressing. Gently toss until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
4. Serve or Chill
You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Pro Tips
- Drain excess water: If using regular cucumbers, you may want to salt and drain them first to avoid a watery salad.
- Make it thicker: Strain your yogurt beforehand if you prefer a richer, dip-like consistency.
- Make it vegan: Use a dairy-free yogurt substitute.
What to Serve With Cucumber Yogurt Salad
This salad shines as a refreshing side dish. Try it with:
Storage Tips
- Store in the fridge: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Stir before serving: The dressing can separate slightly—just give it a quick mix.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Yogurt Salad is a summer essential—cool, crunchy, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just need a light lunch, this salad is the answer.
Leave a Comment