Cucumber With Laban
A refreshing summer salad combining creamy laban and crisp cucumbers, accented with garlic and mint for a cooling, flavorful experience perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the laban curd with a spoon and stir until smooth. Combine with chopped cucumbers.
- Work garlic to a paste with salt, then mix it with a spoonful of laban before adding to the cucumber mixture.
- Add fresh or dried mint to the mixture and stir well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, whisk the laban vigorously before mixing in the cucumbers. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before making the paste. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also be great substitutes for mint. This dish can be adapted to complement various Mediterranean recipes, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish chilled as a refreshing side to grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter alongside pita pocket bread. It pairs beautifully with Israeli Vegetable Salad or can be enjoyed as a dip with fresh veggies. For a complete meal, consider adding some grilled chicken or falafel for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld and improve, but be mindful that the cucumbers may release water. To refresh the dish, give it a good stir before serving, and consider adding a sprinkle of fresh mint or a dash of salt to brighten the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber With Laban contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% 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 use a different type of yogurt instead of laban?
Yes, you can substitute laban with Greek yogurt or any plain yogurt. However, laban has a distinct tangy flavor that adds depth to the dish, so if using Greek yogurt, consider thinning it slightly with water or milk to mimic laban's consistency.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the laban with a thick plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Ensure it is unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor profile. The other ingredients remain the same, making it a delicious and refreshing vegan dish.
What can I do if the dish is too salty?
If your cucumber with laban turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding more chopped cucumbers or a dollop of yogurt. Another option is to mix in a small amount of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice to offset the saltiness, bringing a pleasant contrast to the dish.
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).