Creamy Cucumber Salad: A Fresh, Easy, and Versatile Dish
Looking for a light, refreshing, and quick dish to brighten your table? This creamy cucumber salad is the perfect choice for a starter, side dish, or even a healthy lunch. With crisp cucumbers, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy yogurt dressing, it delivers a delightful balance of crunch and creaminess. Ideal year-round but especially refreshing on warm, sunny days, this budget-friendly recipe is customizable, nutritious, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 3 small cucumbers (or 2 medium), washed and thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 firm tomato, finely diced
- ¼ red onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or chives, if preferred)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons toasted sunflower or sesame seeds for crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Thinly slice the cucumbers using a knife or mandoline for uniform slices. To reduce excess water, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them drain in a colander for 10 minutes. Rinse briefly and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Grate the carrot, dice the tomato, and finely slice the red onion. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. Stir in the chopped dill or chives, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cucumbers, carrot, tomato, and onion to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the salad for 15–30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sunflower or sesame seeds for extra crunch, if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Customize It: Add ingredients like corn kernels, diced bell peppers, avocado, or chickpeas for variety or to make it more filling.
- Vegan Option: Swap Greek yogurt for soy or coconut yogurt and use plant-based mayonnaise.
- Prevent Sogginess: If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Avoid freezing, as it affects texture.
- Enhance Flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a flavor boost.
- Presentation: Serve in chilled bowls or as a topping for grilled meats or flatbreads for an elegant touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of cucumbers?
Yes! English or Persian cucumbers work well and are less watery. If using garden cucumbers, peel if the skin is thick or waxy.
2. How can I make the salad less watery?
Salt and drain the cucumbers as described in Step 1. Pat them dry thoroughly before combining with other ingredients.
3. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use plant-based yogurt (soy, coconut, or almond) and vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version.
4. How long can I store the salad?
It stays fresh for up to 24 hours in an airtight container in the fridge. After that, the vegetables may soften, and the dressing may thin out.
5. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients. Prepare in batches if your bowl isn’t large enough to toss evenly.
6. What can I serve this salad with?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, and it’s a great addition to picnics, barbecues, or as a topping for wraps and sandwiches.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad is as healthy as it is delicious:
- Cucumbers: Hydrating, low-calorie, and rich in vitamins K and C.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides protein and probiotics for gut health.
- Carrots and Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A and C.
- Olive Oil: A source of heart-healthy fats.
With minimal calories and maximum flavor, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Conclusion
This creamy cucumber salad is your go-to recipe for a quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or craving a light lunch, its vibrant flavors and customizable ingredients make it a winner. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a staple you’ll turn to again and again. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and zest in every bite!