Cucumber Yogurt Spread
A refreshing cucumber and yogurt spread with a hint of garlic and lemon, perfect for dipping, spreading, or as a cool side dish for light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cucumber in colander; sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Let stand 10 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water, drain on paper towels.
- Place cucumber in blender or food processor and blend on high speed until pureed, about 2 minutes.
- Place puree in colander and let stand 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, sour cream, crushed garlic, grated onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the drained cucumber puree until well blended.
- Serve chilled as a spread or dip.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or mint to the spread. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be a delightful addition. For a smoother texture, you can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded cucumber can work in a pinch, though fresh is always best.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber Yogurt Spread is perfect as a dip for fresh vegetables or pita chips. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a spread on sandwiches. For a Mediterranean twist, serve alongside dishes like Spanakopita(Spinach Pita) or as part of a mezze platter to complement other flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. When ready to serve again, give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated liquids.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Yogurt Spread contains roughly 129 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% 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 spread ahead of time?
Yes, this cucumber yogurt spread can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld nicely, making it even tastier when served chilled.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, adding a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, you could use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option, though it may slightly alter the taste.
How can I adjust the garlic flavor?
If you're sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. Alternatively, roasted garlic will provide a milder flavor. For added depth, consider using garlic powder instead for a subtler taste.
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).