Cucumber Salad With Yogurt
Refreshing cucumber salad with tangy yogurt, bright dill, and a splash of cider vinegar—perfect as a light side or snack for hot days, a cool Mediterranean treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced cucumbers with salt in a bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a saucer and place a heavy object, such as a large fruit can, on top.
- Let the cucumbers stand at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours or until the juices are drawn out.
- Drain the cucumbers well.
- Add plain yogurt, minced fresh dill (or dried dill), pepper, salt, and cider vinegar to the cucumbers.
- Toss everything together until evenly mixed.
- Refrigerate the salad to chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of regular plain yogurt. You can also substitute fresh dill with chopped fresh mint for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or a sprinkle of sugar. Remember to adjust the salt based on your taste and the saltiness of your yogurt. This recipe is a fantastic addition to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber salad as a side dish at a summer barbecue or alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like grilled chicken or fish. For added texture, consider topping it with toasted nuts or seeds. This dish also works well as a light appetizer with pita bread and dips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release more liquid over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of cucumbers doesn't hold up well after thawing. Enjoy the salad cold for best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad With Yogurt contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1464mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber salad a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to refrigerate it to allow the flavors to meld. However, it's best to serve it fresh on the same day to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
What can I substitute for yogurt?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute plain yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Alternatively, sour cream can also work, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or dressings you use are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).