Description
A refreshing and creamy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad combining crisp English cucumber and sharp red onion with a tangy Greek yogurt-based dressing infused with fresh herbs and lemon. Perfect as a light side dish or a cool appetizer, this salad offers vibrant Mediterranean flavors with a smooth texture that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 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, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Slice the English cucumber and the small red onion thinly. Ensure even, consistent slices to allow the flavors to meld and provide a pleasant texture in the salad.
- Combine Vegetables: Place the sliced cucumber and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss to distribute the vegetables evenly throughout the bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, parsley, oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Stir gently to coat all the slices evenly with the tzatziki dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Chill and Serve: The salad can be served immediately for a fresh taste, or cover it and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad to cool. Serve cold for best results.
Notes
- For a thicker, creamier dressing, strain the Greek yogurt beforehand to remove excess water.
- Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste preference—more for a stronger bite, less for subtlety.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side in Mediterranean meals.
- To keep the cucumber crisp, salt it lightly and let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing; then rinse and pat dry.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the brightest flavor.
