Ingredients
2 English cucumbers (partially peeled with some peel left for stripes)
Kosher salt for salting cucumbers
3/4 cup whole milk Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, stems removed, plus extra for garnish
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 small fresh garlic clove grated or minced)
Black pepper to taste
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced into half moons
Instructions
First Step: Partially peel the 2 English cucumbers, leaving some strips for visual appeal, then slice them lengthwise in half and remove the seeds with a spoon to reduce excess water.
Second Step: Slice the prepared cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick half-moons and place them in a large colander. Season generously with kosher salt, toss well, and let them sit for 20 to 30 minutes to drain and crisp up, which is crucial for preventing a watery creamy cucumber Greek yogurt salad.
Third Step: While the cucumbers rest, prepare the dressing by whisking together 3/4 cup whole milk Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, the zest and juice of 1/2 lemon, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper to taste in a large bowl.
Fourth Step: Chill the dressing in the refrigerator for a few minutes to let the flavors meld, making it easier to coat the cucumbers evenly later.
Fifth Step: After the cucumbers have drained, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture, ensuring the salad stays creamy and not soggy adapt for vegan preferences by using a plant-based yogurt here.
Sixth Step: Add the dried cucumbers and 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced into half moons, to the bowl with the dressing, then toss everything until fully coated for even flavor distribution.
Final Step: Adjust seasoning to taste, garnish with extra fresh dill, and serve immediately for the best crunch, or store briefly with dietary tweaks like low-sodium options by reducing salt.
Notes
π₯ Salting cucumbers before mixing draws out water, enhancing crunch and flavor.
πΏ Fresh dill adds bright herbal notes; mint or parsley work as alternatives.
β³ Keep cucumbers and dressing separate if prepping ahead to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Resting time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing, Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 59
- Sugar: 4.7g
- Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 9.9g
- Protein: 5.3g
