Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this incredibly simple yet mind-blowing Cucumber Yogurt Dill Salad! Imagine a dish so refreshing, it'll instantly transport you to a breezy Mediterranean coastline, packed with crisp cucumbers, tangy yogurt, and aromatic dill that dances on your palate. Whether you're looking for a quick side dish, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Greek-inspired recipe is about to become your new summer obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the cucumbers. Wash them thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Once clean, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with a pinch of salt. This will help to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, ensuring a crisp texture in the salad.
- Next, in a separate bowl, add the plain yogurt. Choose a good quality yogurt for the best flavor and creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency or regular plain yogurt if you prefer.
- To the yogurt, add the chopped fresh dill. Make sure to finely chop the dill to release its aromatic oils and enhance the flavor of the salad.
- Pour in the lemon juice, which will add brightness and acidity to the dish. Mix well to combine the yogurt, dill, and lemon juice into a smooth dressing.
- Once the dressing is well mixed, gently fold in the salted cucumbers. Be careful not to crush the cucumbers; you want them to retain their shape and crunch.
- Taste the salad and season with additional salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember that the amount of salt may vary depending on how much you initially added to the cucumbers.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste and make it even more delicious.
- Serve the Cucumber Yogurt Dill Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as a refreshing side dish or as a light main course. Garnish with additional dill if desired for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers like English or Persian varieties for the best texture and flavor.
- Salt Management: Don't skip salting the cucumbers - this crucial step removes excess water and concentrates the flavor.
- Yogurt Selection: Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier dressing that clings beautifully to the cucumbers.
- Dill Freshness: Always use fresh dill if possible. The difference in flavor is remarkable compared to dried herbs.
- Chill Factor: For the most refreshing experience, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, can be a standalone light meal, or works as a cooling side dish for spicy foods.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
