Cucumber yogurt salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creaminess of yogurt. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals.
The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or casual gatherings. You can easily adjust the flavors by adding herbs or spices according to your taste.
Overview of Cucumber Yogurt Salad
Cucumber yogurt salad is a delightful dish that brings together the crispness of fresh cucumbers and the smoothness of creamy yogurt. This salad serves as a perfect side or a cooling complement to spicy meals.
Its simplicity and quick preparation make it an excellent choice for warm days or casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a refreshing dish that appeals to various palates.
Ingredients That Shine
The key components of cucumber yogurt salad include large, thinly sliced cucumbers and a generous portion of yogurt. The yogurt can be Greek or regular, depending on your preference for creaminess.
Adding garlic and fresh herbs like dill or mint enhances the flavor profile, while a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice provide a zesty finish. This combination not only tastes great but also offers a nutritious option for any meal.
Preparation Steps
To prepare this salad, start by washing and slicing the cucumbers. For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out moisture before patting them dry.
Next, mix the yogurt with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs in a bowl. This dressing is where the magic happens, blending all the flavors together.
Combining Ingredients
Once the dressing is ready, gently fold in the sliced cucumbers, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
After mixing, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This allows you to customize the dish to your liking, ensuring it meets your flavor preferences.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience, chill the cucumber yogurt salad in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a refreshing treat on a warm day.
When ready to serve, present the salad in a rustic bowl, garnished with sprigs of dill. A light drizzle of olive oil and a few lemon wedges on the side add to the visual appeal and provide an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This cucumber yogurt salad is not only refreshing but also nutritious, offering about 120 calories per serving. With a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, it fits well into a variety of dietary plans.
Enjoy this salad as a side dish or a light meal, and feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own. Its versatility and refreshing taste make it a favorite for many occasions.
Easy Cucumber Yogurt Salad Recipe
This cucumber yogurt salad features thinly sliced cucumbers mixed with creamy yogurt, garlic, and fresh herbs. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it a convenient option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill or mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. If desired, sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped herbs. Stir until well blended.
- Combine: Add the sliced cucumbers to the yogurt mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g