Description
This cool and creamy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad is a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for hot days or as a light appetizer. Combining crisp English cucumbers and sharp red onions with a tangy Greek yogurt dressing enriched with fresh herbs and lemon, this salad delivers a burst of flavor and a delightful creamy texture. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it’s ideal for quick meals, picnics, or as a side 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: Begin by slicing the English cucumber and small red onion into thin, even pieces to ensure a crisp texture and balanced flavor throughout the salad.
- Mix Vegetables: Place the sliced cucumber and red onion into a large bowl. Gently toss them together so that the flavors start to meld and the slices are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine 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. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every slice is coated with the creamy and flavorful dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Serve the Tzatziki Cucumber Salad immediately for a fresh taste, or cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the salad’s refreshing qualities.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh herbs to maximize flavor.
- You can substitute regular yogurt but Greek yogurt provides the ideal creaminess and tang.
- Adjust garlic amount based on your preference for intensity.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a light side dish for summer meals.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days; texture may soften slightly over time.
