Description
This Cool and Creamy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a flavorful side. Combining crunchy English cucumber, pungent red onion, and a yogurt-based dressing infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, it offers a light yet satisfying taste experience inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Easy to prepare and quick to assemble, this salad balances creamy texture with bright, tangy notes, making it an ideal appetizer or accompaniment to grilled dishes.
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 small red onion thinly. Ensure the slices are uniform for even texture and flavor throughout the salad.
- Combine vegetables: Place the sliced cucumber and red onion into a large mixing bowl. Gently toss them together to distribute evenly without bruising the vegetables.
- Make the 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 mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Dress the salad: Pour the yogurt dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each slice evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful and creamy.
- 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 for a more infused experience before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker dressing, drain excess water from the grated cucumber before mixing.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs but use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
- Adjust garlic amounts based on your preference for pungency.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
