ThiThis Creamy Greek Yogurt Cucumber Dill Salad is light, cool, and full of fresh flavor. It comes together in minutes and pairs perfectly with almost any main dish. Because the dressing is simple and made with wholesome ingredients, the salad feels refreshing while still being creamy and satisfying. The combination of crisp cucumbers, bright lemon, and fragrant dill makes every bite vibrant. It’s a great warm-weather side dish and an easy recipe to enjoy all year long.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, then set the bowl aside.
2. Slice the Vegetables
Wash and dry the cucumbers well. Slice them into thin, even pieces. Finely slice the red onion so the flavor blends gently into the salad.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients
Place the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and fresh dill into a large bowl. Toss lightly to mix everything together.
4. Add the Dressing
Pour the creamy yogurt mixture over the vegetables. Toss again until all the slices are evenly coated. Work gently so the cucumbers stay crisp.
5. Chill and Serve
Serve right away for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to deepen the flavors. The salad tastes even better as it chills.
Tips
For More Flavor: Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the herbs and dressing blend together.
To Reduce Wateriness: Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes. Pat them dry before mixing them into the salad.
Easy Customizations: Add fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a different twist. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes if you want a mild kick.
Turn It Into a Meal: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, or crumbled feta cheese to make the salad more filling.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based unsweetened yogurt to turn this recipe into a completely vegan option.
FAQ
1. Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. The flavors deepen as it chills. However, for the best texture, add the dressing shortly before serving.
2. How can I keep the salad from getting watery?
Cucumbers release a lot of moisture. Simply salt them and let them drain for a few minutes before mixing the salad. This step keeps the dressing creamy.
3. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can, but Greek yogurt offers a thicker and richer dressing. If using regular yogurt, start with a smaller amount and add more only as needed.
4. What type of cucumbers work best?
English cucumbers work very well because they have thin skin and fewer seeds. Persian cucumbers are also a great choice for extra crunch.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days. The salad may release some liquid, but you can stir it before serving.
