If you’re searching for a fresh, tangy, and utterly refreshing side that brightens any meal, this Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber slices, and the aromatic charm of fresh dill, it’s the kind of salad you’ll crave all summer long. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or simply enjoying it on its own, every bite offers a delightful crunch and a burst of zesty, herbal goodness that feels like a cool breeze on a warm day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to bring this salad to life. Each one plays a crucial role: the cucumber adds crisp texture, Greek yogurt lends creaminess, and dill infuses that unmistakable fresh herb flavor that makes this dish sing.
- Cucumber: Choose a firm, fresh cucumber for the best crunch and flavor.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Provides a creamy, tangy base that ties all flavors together beautifully.
- Fresh dill, chopped: The star herb, adding a bright, fresh, and slightly floral note.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel to the dressing.
- Lemon juice: Brings essential acidity that lifts the flavors and keeps the salad vibrant.
- Garlic, minced: Offers a subtle pungent kick that deepens the overall taste.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw moisture from the cucumber.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Red onion, finely chopped: Contributes a mild bite and lovely pops of color.
How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
Begin by washing your cucumber under cold running water to remove any dirt. This ensures you’re working with fresh, clean veggies for the best possible flavor and crunch.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumber
Trim off both ends and slice the cucumber into thin rounds approximately 1/8-inch thick. Thin slices allow the salad to have just the right bite while soaking up the dressing.
Step 3: Salt and Drain
Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss gently, then let sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterwards, blot dry with paper towels to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Step 4: Make the Yogurt Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Add the cucumber slices to the yogurt dressing and toss gently to coat every piece evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld into perfection.
How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped dill or a few thin lemon slices on top to brighten the presentation. A small drizzle of olive oil right before serving also adds a lovely sheen and richer flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or even alongside Mediterranean-inspired dishes like falafel and pita. Its creamy, crunchy texture balances heartier mains beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in small glass jars for picnics or as a refreshing palate cleanser between courses. You can also spoon it onto crisp lettuce leaves or even use it as a topping on baked potatoes for a fresh twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cucumber dill salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the cucumbers release moisture, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within this timeframe for optimal texture.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The high water content in cucumbers and dairy in the yogurt do not freeze well and will cause unpleasant texture changes.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh, so reheating is not advised. Instead, serve chilled right from the fridge for that crisp, refreshing experience every time.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can, but Greek yogurt’s thicker consistency makes for a creamier dressing that clings better to the cucumber slices, enhancing the texture of the salad.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
Fresh dill is key to this salad’s distinctive flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, dried dill can work in smaller amounts—just keep in mind it’s less vibrant.
Can I add other herbs or ingredients?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley or chives can be delightful additions. You might also throw in some cherry tomatoes or radishes for extra color and crunch.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes allows the flavors to marry nicely, but you can also prepare it a few hours in advance for a deeper taste.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
The traditional recipe includes Greek yogurt, so it’s not vegan. However, swapping the yogurt for a plant-based alternative can make it vegan-friendly while keeping the fresh vibe.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is a gem that’s incredibly easy to whip up but feels like a special treat every time. Its vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and cooling effect make it a perfect partner for all kinds of meals. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this salad again and again!
Print
Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and creamy cucumber dill salad featuring crisp cucumber slices tossed in a tangy Greek yogurt dressing flavored with fresh dill, garlic, lemon juice, and red onion. Perfect as a light side dish for warm weather meals or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cucumber
- 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the cucumber: Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Slice the cucumber: Cut off both ends of the cucumber and slice it into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick, or to your preferred thickness.
- Prepare cucumber base: Place the cucumber slices into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Salt the cucumber: Sprinkle a small pinch of salt over the cucumber slices and toss them gently to coat.
- Draw out moisture: Let the cucumber sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then use a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to blot away any liquid.
- Start dressing base: In a separate small bowl, add 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt.
- Add fresh dill: Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill and add it to the yogurt.
- Add olive oil: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the yogurt mixture.
- Add lemon juice: Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice into the yogurt mixture.
- Add garlic: Mince 1 teaspoon of garlic and stir it into the yogurt mixture.
- Add red onion: Finely chop 1 tablespoon of red onion and add it to the yogurt mixture.
- Season dressing: Season the yogurt mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Mix dressing: Stir all the ingredients in the yogurt mixture together until they are evenly combined.
- Combine salad: Add the cucumber slices to the yogurt mixture and gently toss them together until the cucumber is well coated with the dressing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the cucumber dill salad chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cucumbers that are firm and crisp.
- Adjust garlic and lemon juice quantities to taste if you prefer a milder or more tangy flavor.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative.
- You can add a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to balance the tanginess if desired.
