Laban-Cucumber-Yogurt Salad
A refreshing Middle Eastern cucumber and yogurt salad with mint and garlic, perfect for a light side dish or cooling accompaniment to spicy meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and dice the cucumber.
- Mash the garlic with salt to taste.
- Add the mashed garlic to the yogurt.
- Add the diced cucumber to the yogurt mixture.
- Stir in dried spearmint leaves.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat yogurt or Laban. You can substitute fresh mint for dried spearmint if you have it on hand, just use about twice as much. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the yogurt mixture. This salad is a refreshing side dish, especially enjoyed with Mediterranean recipes like Keftathes(Greek Meatballs).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Laban-Cucumber-Yogurt Salad as a cool accompaniment to grilled meats or spicy dishes. It pairs beautifully with Briam and makes a great dip for pita bread. For a more substantial meal, consider adding it to a bowl of quinoa or serving it alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. It’s best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating; simply give it a quick stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laban-Cucumber-Yogurt Salad contains roughly 70 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 low-fat yogurt for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat yogurt, but keep in mind that it may result in a thinner consistency. If you prefer a thicker salad, consider straining the yogurt before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of this salad, substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Ensure that the yogurt is unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor profile.
Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing taste, especially on warm days. However, if you're short on time, you can serve it immediately after mixing, though the flavors might not be as developed.
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).