Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a refreshing and creamy side dish that feels like a cool breeze on a summer day, then look no further than this Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad. The perfect blend of crunchy cucumbers, tangy Greek yogurt, vibrant herbs, and a touch of tangy acidity creates a dish that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of salad that brightens up any meal, whether you’re hosting a barbecue, assembling a light lunch, or just craving something fresh and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures that make this recipe stand out. From creamy Greek yogurt that adds richness to crisp cucumbers that bring refreshing crunch, these essentials come together with herbs and acidity to create balance and brightness.

• Red onion: Thinly sliced to add a sharp, slightly sweet bite that mellows when marinated.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides smooth, fruity richness that coats the cucumbers beautifully.
• Red wine vinegar: A tangy punch that lifts all the flavors and softens the onions.
• Dried oregano: Adds Mediterranean herbaceous notes that make this salad truly authentic.
• English cucumbers: Thinly sliced for tender crunch without bitterness or seeds.
• Plain Greek yogurt (full fat): The creamy, tangy base that transforms simple salad into a luscious dish.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings zesty brightness that complements the yogurt’s creaminess.
• Garlic clove: Pressed for just the right subtle kick without overpowering.
• Fresh dill: A fragrant herb that adds a burst of fresh flavor and a hint of grassy sweetness.
• Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors, with extra for seasoning to taste.
• Fresh ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to balance the salad.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Red Onions

Start by creating an irresistibly flavorful marinade for your red onions. In a small bowl, stir together the thinly sliced red onion, extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Give everything a good mix and then let the onions sit at room temperature while you move on. This simple step softens their sharpness and infuses them with a mellow, aromatic punch that will marry perfectly with the creamy yogurt later.

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumbers

Next, grab your English cucumbers and slice them beautifully thin. The key here is to keep the slices uniform so every bite has the same delightful crunch. Place these sliced cucumbers into a large bowl, providing a fresh and crisp base that will soak up all the lovely flavors coming next.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Dressing

Now, let’s talk about that luscious dressing that makes this Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad so addictive. In a separate bowl, combine the creamy Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, pressed garlic, chopped dill, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Stir until fully combined and smooth. This dressing brings the perfect harmony of creamy tang, herbaceous freshness, and subtle spice.

Step 4: Combine Everything

The magic happens when you bring all the components together. Pour your yogurt dressing over the cucumbers, then add the marinated red onions along with all the flavorful liquid from their bowl. Toss everything thoroughly until each cucumber slice is coated with that creamy dressing and dotted with herbs and onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with a bit more salt or pepper if needed. This salad is ready to enjoy immediately, but it also benefits from a little chill time to let the flavors marry beautifully.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh dill or a few extra cracked black peppercorns right before serving adds that pop of color and flavor that makes this salad look as good as it tastes. You can also add a few thin lemon slices for an extra fresh presentation that guests will love.

Side Dishes

This Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad is as versatile as it is delicious. It pairs beautifully with grilled seafood or chicken, Mediterranean dishes like gyro wraps or falafel, and even works as a cool, creamy side alongside spicy or smoky meals. It’s a perfect companion to balance bold flavors and bring a refreshing contrast to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative with your presentation! Serve this salad in small individual glass bowls for a pretty appetizer or as part of a mezze platter with pita bread and olives. Alternatively, use it as a topping for sandwiches or toast to add creamy crunch and brightness, making your meal feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! Store the Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers might release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving again.

Freezing

Because this salad relies on the fresh crunch of cucumbers and creamy yogurt, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor would degrade once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated briefly.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, warming it up would diminish its refreshing qualities and alter the texture of the yogurt and cucumbers.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

You can, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which gives the salad its signature texture and richness. If you use regular yogurt, consider straining it first to remove excess moisture.

What type of cucumbers are best for this salad?

English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making the salad more delicate and less bitter. However, you can also use regular cucumbers if you peel and deseed them first.

Can I add other herbs to the salad?

Absolutely! Fresh mint, parsley, or chives can be wonderful additions or substitutes for dill, depending on your taste preferences and what you have on hand.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect side for anyone watching their carb intake while still enjoying delicious food.

How soon should I eat the salad after making it?

While it’s delicious immediately, letting it chill in the fridge for about 20–30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just don’t wait too long, as cucumbers can get watery and lose some crunch.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad enough. It’s wonderfully fresh, creamy, and bright all at once—a true crowd-pleaser that fits any season but especially shines in warm weather. Whip it up anytime you want a quick, healthy side that feels special and homemade. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your go-to salads, like it is for me. Enjoy every crisp, tangy bite!

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