The Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is everything you want in a refreshing summer side dish crisp, cool cucumbers combined with the tangy richness of Greek yogurt and the bright herbaceous flavor of fresh dill. This simple salad is a go-to when you want something fast, fresh, and satisfying without turning on the stove. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or light lunches, this salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches. The yogurt base keeps it low in calories while adding protein, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re meal prepping or entertaining, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 cups thinly sliced English cucumbers (about 2 large)
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¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
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1 tablespoon white vinegar
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a colander with a sprinkle of salt. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry.
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In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, vinegar, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Add the cucumbers to the bowl and gently fold them into the yogurt dressing until evenly coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 85 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Perfect Summer Side: Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt
The Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt is a refreshing, light, and healthy dish that makes the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal. Its clean flavors and simple preparation make it a staple in Mediterranean-inspired cooking. Combining the crisp texture of cucumbers with the smooth, tangy essence of Greek yogurt, and finishing with aromatic dill and a touch of vinegar, this dish is a modern twist on a timeless classic. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent, yet is surprisingly healthy and nourishing.
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, add a light touch to a heavy entrée, or offer a refreshing side at your next BBQ, this cucumber salad is the answer.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
This salad is inspired by dishes found across Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern regions, where yogurt and cucumbers are frequently paired in dishes such as tzatziki, raita, and other yogurt-based salads. These dishes were originally developed as cooling accompaniments to spiced or grilled meats, as the yogurt provided a soothing contrast to heat, both in terms of spice and temperature. Over time, these simple combinations evolved into regional staples, often modified with fresh herbs, garlic, or vinegar.
The version with Greek yogurt and dill is a nod to both Greek and Balkan traditions, offering a creamy texture with subtle tang and earthiness from the herbs. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility it adapts well to regional preferences and personal tastes while staying rooted in its refreshing simplicity.
Why This Cucumber Salad Stands Out
What makes this particular recipe shine is its balance of flavors and textures. The crispness of fresh cucumbers contrasts with the creaminess of the Greek yogurt, creating a bite that is both light and satisfying. The vinegar brings a mild acidity that brightens the dish, while dill adds an unmistakably fresh aroma and taste. Garlic and onion powder offer subtle savory notes without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cucumber and yogurt.
Another standout feature is the health factor. With Greek yogurt as its base, this salad is protein-rich, probiotic-friendly, and low in fat. It avoids heavy mayonnaise or sour cream, making it a healthier alternative to traditional creamy salads like coleslaw or ranch-dressed sides. For those watching calories, carbs, or processed ingredients, this salad delivers without compromise.
Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion
This salad pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes. It’s a perfect companion to grilled chicken, kebabs, or fish. Its cool profile complements spicy or heavily seasoned dishes, making it a great contrast to jerk chicken, blackened salmon, or shawarma. You can also serve it with vegetarian options like falafel, roasted chickpeas, or grilled halloumi for a balanced plant-based meal.
It’s also incredibly versatile when served with picnic staples bring it alongside burgers, hotdogs, or sandwiches to offer a refreshing break from heavier sides like fries or baked beans. Even at a holiday table, this salad can serve as a lighter, more modern alternative to rich and heavy classics.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Each component of this salad offers its own nutritional benefit. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them an ideal base for light dishes. They’re high in antioxidants and may help with hydration and skin health due to their high water content.
Greek yogurt is packed with protein and probiotics, which support digestive health and provide a feeling of fullness. It’s also rich in calcium and vitamin B12. By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream, this dish slashes the calories and saturated fat content dramatically.
Fresh dill is more than just a fragrant herb it contains flavonoids and essential oils that have been linked to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. Together, these ingredients create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Why Greek Yogurt Is a Game-Changer
Using Greek yogurt instead of more traditional creamy bases like mayonnaise elevates this salad both in flavor and nutrition. Greek yogurt is thicker and tangier than regular yogurt, which provides a richer texture and more satisfying bite. It’s also loaded with probiotics that promote gut health and help with digestion. Compared to sour cream or mayo, it has less fat, more protein, and adds a fresh, slightly tart dimension to the dressing.
This swap is especially appreciated by health-conscious eaters or those on high-protein or low-fat diets. It also keeps the salad feeling light and fresh perfect for warm weather.
Tips to Get the Best Results
To prevent the salad from becoming watery, it’s important to salt the cucumbers and let them rest for 10–15 minutes before adding the dressing. This step draws out excess moisture and preserves the creamy consistency of the salad. Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and thinner skins, or peel regular cucumbers if needed.
Always use fresh dill for the most vibrant flavor, and don’t shy away from adjusting the acidity or seasoning to your taste. A splash of lemon juice can brighten it further, and a touch of honey or mustard can offer a sweet or tangy twist.
This salad tastes best after chilling for at least 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. It also keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Creative Variations to Try
This recipe is endlessly customizable. You can add finely sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or radishes for color and crunch. For a Mediterranean spin, toss in some feta cheese or olives. Want a Middle Eastern touch? Add ground cumin, mint, or even a dollop of tahini to the dressing.
For extra protein, throw in cooked chickpeas or diced grilled chicken. Craving crunch? Add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds just before serving. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can even make it with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
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What Makes It a Summer Favorite
The Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is truly a celebration of summer. Its cooling ingredients and light texture make it ideal for hot weather, when you want to eat something refreshing and easy. Unlike heavier sides, it won’t weigh you down, and its flavor profile feels clean and invigorating.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep. That makes it perfect for last-minute gatherings, meal prep Sundays, or weeknight dinners. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the salting step: If you don’t salt the cucumbers and drain them before mixing, your salad could turn watery and diluted.
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Using regular yogurt: While it’s possible, Greek yogurt’s thick consistency is ideal. Regular yogurt can result in a runnier dressing.
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Overpowering the dressing: Too much vinegar, garlic, or dill can mask the delicate cucumber flavor. Always taste and adjust gradually.
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Not chilling the salad: Serving it immediately can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Letting it sit allows everything to blend beautifully.
Conclusion
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt is a light, flavorful, and health-forward dish that brings a fresh, vibrant touch to any table. Its roots in global cuisine give it a comforting familiarity, while its modern, health-conscious twist makes it ideal for today’s home cooks. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this salad offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that work well for casual meals or elegant spreads alike.
Its tangy dressing, crunchy cucumbers, and aromatic dill come together to form a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, explore Mediterranean flavors, or just enjoy something truly refreshing, this salad belongs in your regular rotation.