This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing and light side dish, perfect for any meal. Made with Greek yogurt, garlic, and a hint of lemon, it’s both tangy and savory. The salad is simple to prepare and tastes even better after chilling, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 stalks chives or dill (optional)
• Lemon zest and a little juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber:
   • Cut off the ends of the cucumber.
   • Use a slicer to cut the cucumber into even slices, about 2-3mm thick. Be careful and wear gloves to protect your hands.
   • Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
   • Let the cucumbers sit for about 10 minutes to allow the salt to draw out excess water.
2. Mince the Garlic:
   • Mince 1/2 tablespoon of garlic finely. You can use frozen minced garlic for convenience.
3. Remove Water from Cucumbers:
   • After the cucumbers have released water, place them in a sieve and press out the excess water, or squeeze them by hand.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:
   • In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt and the minced garlic.
   • If using dill or chives, chop them finely and add them to the mixture.
5. Add Olive Oil and Lemon:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yogurt mixture.
   • Wash a lemon, zest some of the peel, and add it to the mixture.
   • Add a little lemon juice to taste. If you prefer less acidity, you can skip the lemon juice.
6. Combine and Serve:
   • Mix the squeezed cucumbers with the yogurt mixture until well combined.
   • For the best flavor, store the cucumber salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for a while before serving.
7. Serving Suggestion:
   • Serve the cucumber salad with whole wheat bread drizzled with olive oil for a light and refreshing meal or side dish.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to squeeze out as much water from the cucumbers as possible to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
• You can add other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for additional flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water content, helping to keep you hydrated.
• Greek Yogurt: Rich in protein and probiotics, promoting digestive health.
• Garlic: Offers immune-boosting properties and adds a rich flavor.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Nut-Free: Yes
• Low-Calorie: Ideal for a light and healthy snack or side dish.

Storage

• Store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together, making it taste even better over time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and is ready in just 25 minutes.
• Refreshing: Perfect for hot days, thanks to its light and cooling nature.
• Healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients that offer great nutritional benefits.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt and Garlic is a delicious and refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it an ideal choice for a healthy snack or a side dish. Enjoy this light and flavorful salad with a slice of whole wheat bread for a satisfying experience!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
   • Yes, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, giving the salad a richer texture.
2. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
   • You can use garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh garlic offers the best flavor.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
   • Absolutely! You can add sliced radishes, tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra crunch.
4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
   • Yes, it stores well in the fridge and the flavors even improve after chilling.
5. What can I use instead of lemon?
   • You can use lime juice or vinegar as an alternative for acidity.
6. Can I make this salad vegan?
   • Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.
7. How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming too soggy?
   • Make sure to salt them and squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing with the yogurt.
8. What’s the best way to serve this salad?
   • Serve it chilled, with bread, or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish.
9. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   • Yes, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor. If using dried, reduce the quantity by half.
10. How can I add more flavor to this salad?
    • You can sprinkle in some feta cheese, black olives, or a pinch of red chili flakes for extra taste.