Description
This Cool and Creamy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or as a light side. Combining crisp English cucumber and pungent red onion with a smooth Greek yogurt-based dressing infused with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and garlic, this salad offers a delicious Mediterranean-inspired taste that pairs well with grilled meats or stands beautifully on its own.
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: Begin by thinly slicing the English cucumber and the small red onion. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices to ensure the salad has a consistent texture and flavor distribution.
- Combine Vegetables: Place the sliced cucumber and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss them together so that the slices are evenly mixed and distribute their flavors thoroughly.
- Mix 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 you have a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Use a gentle stirring motion to coat every slice evenly without bruising the vegetables.
- Chill or Serve: Serve the Tzatziki Cucumber Salad immediately for a fresh taste, or cover and refrigerate it for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully for a cooler, more integrated flavor profile.
Notes
- For best results, use Greek yogurt with a thick consistency for a creamy dressing.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on your preference.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavors, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics or barbecues.
- Fresh herbs are key; dried may alter the flavor, so substitute sparingly if needed.
