If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant salad that’s bursting with flavor and so easy to whip up, this Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite. The crispness of fresh cucumbers meets the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, while bright lemon juice and fragrant dill make every bite tantalizingly fresh. It’s the perfect light dish that’s equally fantastic as a side or a stand-alone snack—and best of all, it only takes minutes to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this salad shine. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s the creamy body, zesty spark, or crunchy freshness that makes this salad so satisfying.
- Greek yogurt or plain full-fat (¾ cup / 150 grams): The creamy base that gives the salad its luscious texture and tangy depth.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1 ½ tablespoons): Adds smooth richness and enhances the flavors of the fresh ingredients.
- Lemon juice (1 ½ tablespoons): Brings a bright, citrusy zing that lifts the entire dish.
- Garlic, grated (¼ teaspoon): A subtle kick that adds warmth without overpowering the salad.
- Fine salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for balancing flavors and drawing out the cucumber’s natural juices.
- Black pepper (â…• teaspoon): Provides a gentle hint of heat to round out the flavors.
- Cucumbers (1 ½ lb / 670 grams, sliced): The star of the show—crisp, cool, and oh-so-refreshing.
- Red onion, finely sliced (½): Adds a mild bite and splash of color.
- Fresh dill, chopped (¼ cup): The herb that brings that signature fragrant punch and ties the whole salad together.
How to Make Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Yogurt Dressing
Start by whisking together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This blend is what will coat the cucumbers and onions, turning simple ingredients into a luscious salad.
Step 2: Slice the Vegetables
Slice your red onion finely to tenderize its sharpness, then cut the cucumbers lengthwise and slice them into thin, even rounds about 3mm thick. This careful slicing ensures every bite is tender but still offers that satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
In a large mixing bowl, add your sliced cucumbers, onions, and chopped fresh dill. Pour the yogurt dressing over the top and gently toss until every slice is lovingly coated with the creamy, herby mixture. It’s an easy step that guarantees maximum flavor absorption.
Step 4: Rest or Serve
You can serve the salad right away at room temperature for immediate enjoyment or let it chill in the fridge for a while so the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, this Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is fantastic fresh and served cold.
How to Serve Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling some extra fresh dill or a few lemon zest strands on top just before serving to add an extra pop of color and aroma. A light dusting of crushed black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil can also elevate the dish to another level of deliciousness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or lamb, complementing the charred flavors with its cool, creamy profile. It’s also fantastic alongside a hearty grain bowl or even a light sandwich for lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the vibrant greens and purples. You can also layer it with feta cheese crumbles or cherry tomatoes for added textural interest and color contrast that will impress guests at any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cucumber dill salad keeps beautifully covered in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, as cucumbers release water and become mushy once thawed, which changes the texture drastically.
Reheating
No reheating needed here! This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for a quick and easy side without any fuss.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can substitute regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which holds the dressing together better and provides a richer texture.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based creamy alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours before serving and keep it refrigerated to allow the flavors to meld, but it’s best eaten within two days for optimal freshness.
What type of cucumbers works best?
English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which makes the salad less watery and more tender, but any fresh cucumber will do in a pinch.
Can I add other herbs to this salad?
Definitely! While dill is traditional and gives the salad its characteristic flavor, fresh mint or parsley can also add exciting twists if you want to mix things up.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe is one of those simple dishes that feels like a reveal every time you make it—fresh, creamy, and bursting with vibrant flavors. It’s a fantastic way to brighten up any meal or enjoy a refreshing snack on its own. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites during warmer months and beyond!
Print
Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and creamy Cucumber Dill Salad featuring crisp cucumbers, tangy Greek yogurt dressing, and fresh dill. Perfectly balanced with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, this quick and easy salad is ideal as a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb (670 grams) cucumbers, sliced (about 2 long English cucumbers)
- ½ red onion, finely sliced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- ¾ cup (150 grams) Greek yogurt or plain full-fat yogurt
- 1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic, grated
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- â…• teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and evenly blended. Set the dressing aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Slice the Vegetables: Finely slice the red onion. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then slice each half into thin 3mm (1/8 inch) slices for a crisp yet tender texture.
- Combine Salad: In a large salad bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped fresh dill. Pour the prepared yogurt dressing over the ingredients, then toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the cucumber dill salad immediately at room temperature for best flavor or refrigerate until ready to serve. The salad keeps well chilled for several hours, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
Notes
- Use English cucumbers for thinner skin and fewer seeds, making the salad more tender.
- This salad can be made a few hours in advance; flavors enhance when chilled.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of full-fat.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice according to taste preferences.
- Add fresh mint or chives for a flavor twist.
