Description
This cool and creamy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather or as a light side. Made with crisp English cucumber, sharp red onion, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing infused with fresh herbs and lemon, this salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed immediately or chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 whole English cucumber
- 1 small red onion
Dressing
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Slice the English cucumber and the small red onion into thin pieces. This creates the base for the salad, providing a crisp and fresh texture.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced cucumber and red onion together, ensuring they are evenly mixed without bruising the ingredients.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, parsley, oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Stir gently to coat all slices evenly, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve or Chill: Enjoy the Tzatziki Cucumber Salad immediately for maximum freshness or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to enhance the cool, creamy flavors before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline.
- Chilling the salad for 15-30 minutes helps the flavors to develop more fully.
- If fresh herbs are not available, you can substitute with dried herbs at a reduced amount (about 1 teaspoon each).
- Use plain full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture; low-fat options will work but may be less rich.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on preference.
- Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled meats, gyros, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.
