Cucumbers With Yogurt And Garlic
Cucumbers with yogurt and garlic offers a refreshing, tangy side with creamy, herbal flavors, perfect for hot days or as a cool appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper with a big spoon or a whisk.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. Fresh garlic can be substituted for garlic powder if you prefer a more intense flavor; use 1 clove minced. If you want to add a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the dish. Experiment by adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing cucumber dish as a side to grilled meats or alongside Mediterranean recipes such as Peppery Pasta With Feta Cheese. It also makes a great appetizer or a light lunch when paired with pita bread and hummus. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so stir the mixture gently before serving. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat and wilt the cucumbers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumbers With Yogurt And Garlic contains roughly 62 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the yogurt dressing a day ahead and store it separately in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crispness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
What type of cucumbers should I use?
English cucumbers are ideal for this recipe due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work as well. Just remember to peel and slice them for a better texture in the dish.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even olives for added flavor and texture. Experiment with herbs like dill or mint for a different twist that complements the yogurt dressing beautifully.
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).