Why You'll Love It
- - Light yet satisfying, perfect for any season
- - Minimal prep time, so you can relax
- - Fresh herbs add a fragrant lift
- - Creamy dressing stays cool without heavy mayo
"The creamy cucumber salad stole the show at our family picnic—so fresh, so comforting!"
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Cucumber: Choose firm, seedless cucumbers; they stay crisp and absorb the dressing beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt: Full‑fat Greek yogurt gives body and a tang that balances the coolness of the cucumber.
- Fresh Dill: Add chopped dill at the end for a bright, herbal finish.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon lifts the flavors and prevents the cucumber from turning dull.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle bite; rinse in cold water to soften sharpness.
- Garlic: A tiny clove, minced, adds depth without overwhelming the salad.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Wash cucumbers, slice into thin half‑moons, and pat dry; whisk yogurt, lemon, garlic, and dill together.
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Flavor Development:
Toss cucumbers with the dressing and let sit a few minutes so the flavors meld.
-
Texture Control:
Add red onion at the last minute to keep its crunch intact.
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Finishing Touches:
Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
-
Serving Timing:
Serve chilled, ideally within an hour, so the cucumber stays crisp.
- Use a mandoline for uniform cucumber slices
- Chill the bowl before adding the salad for extra coolness
- Taste and adjust lemon before the final toss
- Garnish with extra dill for visual appeal
Pro Tips
These little details turn a simple side into a memorable experience. I often find that a chilled bowl holds the salad's crispness longer, and a quick splash of olive oil adds a subtle richness that guests notice. Take your time with the herbs; their fragrance is what brings the whole dish together.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Slice cucumbers uniformly for even dressing coverage
- Season gradually; taste as you go
- Serve chilled for maximum crunch
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek?
Yes, but strain it through cheesecloth for at least an hour to achieve a thicker consistency similar to Greek yogurt.
→ How long will the salad stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it stays crisp for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick stir before serving.
→ What can I substitute for dill?
Fresh mint or tarragon work nicely, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.
→ Is this salad suitable for a low‑carb diet?
Absolutely; it’s under 5 g net carbs per serving, making it a perfect side for low‑carb meals.
→ Can I add a protein to make it a main?
Sure, toss in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken breast for a more substantial dish.
→ Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
No, the skin adds color and nutrients, but if the cucumbers are thick‑skinned you may prefer to peel them.
Chef's Tips
If you prefer a milder onion flavor, rinse the sliced red onion in cold water before adding.,A splash of white wine vinegar can replace half the lemon juice for a different tang.,For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
120
Calories
8g
Protein
10g
Carbs
5g
Fat
Taste Profile
Bright and refreshing with a gentle tang
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Choose an unsweetened variety; it will be slightly less tangy.
Mint gives a cooler flavor profile, perfect for hot days.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of sriracha for a subtle heat.
Mediterranean Style
Mix in crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and sun‑dried tomatoes for a heartier take.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑salting cucumbers, which makes them watery
- Not drying cucumbers before tossing, leading to soggy texture
- Using low‑fat yogurt that curdles when mixed with lemon
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can whisk the dressing up to 24 hours ahead and store it sealed; add it to the cucumbers right before serving to keep them crisp.
Leftover Ideas
Stir gently and add a splash of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil if the dressing looks thick after refrigeration.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Wash and slice cucumbers; salt and let drain.
Whisk yogurt, lemon, garlic, dill, and oil together.
Pat cucumbers dry, combine with onion in bowl.
Add dressing, toss, season, and chill before serving.
Creamy Cucumber Salad – Fresh & Crunchy
A cool, creamy cucumber salad with a tangy dill dressing, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing appetizer on a warm day.
Timing
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
0 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Salad
- 01 2 large seedless cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 02 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 03 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 04 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 05 1 tbsp olive oil
- 06 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 07 1 clove garlic, minced
- 08 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers, trim the ends, and slice them into thin half‑moons; place in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a bowl whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped dill until smooth.
Pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels, then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced red onion.
Pour the yogurt dressing over the vegetables, toss gently to coat, and season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If you prefer a milder onion flavor, rinse the sliced red onion in cold water before adding.
- 2 A splash of white wine vinegar can replace half the lemon juice for a different tang.
- 3 For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts just before serving.
Tools You'll Need
-
Mandoline or sharp knife
-
Large mixing bowl
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Colander
-
Small whisk
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Measuring spoons
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t over‑salt the cucumbers; they’ll release too much water
- Keep the dressing chilled for a refreshing bite
- Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving
Professional Secrets
- Use room‑temperature yogurt to avoid curdling
- Add the lemon juice gradually to control acidity
- Pat the cucumbers dry thoroughly to maintain crunch
Recipe by
Oliver Brooks“Every great meal begins with the perfect bite. My passion is crafting irresistible starters that wow.” 🧀🍢
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