Cucumber Dill Salad Fresh and Flavorful Side Dish

January 12, 2026June 29, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make a fresh cucumber dill salad, you need these ingredients:

– 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

– 1 cup Greek yogurt

– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

– ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Optional Additions

You can add a few fun things to change it up:

– Crumbled feta cheese for creaminess.

– Chopped bell peppers for crunch and color.

– Fresh mint for a refreshing twist.

– Avocado for a rich texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Each serving of this salad has:

– Calories: 150

– Protein: 6g

– Carbohydrates: 12g

– Fat: 10g

– Fiber: 2g

This salad is light but still packed with flavor. The Greek yogurt adds protein, while cucumbers provide hydration. Enjoy this dish as a side or a light lunch!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Cucumbers

Start by washing the cucumbers. This step is key to a clean salad. Next, use a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice them thinly. Aim for even slices to ensure a nice bite. Thin slices allow the cucumbers to soak up the dressing well.

Making the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until they blend well. This creamy dressing is where the flavors come alive. The dill will add a fresh taste, while the lemon gives a nice zing.

Combining Ingredients

Now, add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss the cucumbers gently to coat each slice evenly. Be careful not to break them. Next, fold in the thinly sliced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes. These add color and crunch. Mix carefully to keep everything intact. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend beautifully. When ready to serve, give it a quick toss and taste for seasoning.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Slicing Cucumbers

To get the best slices, use a mandoline. This tool makes thin slices very easy. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works too. Just make sure to slice evenly. Aim for about one-eighth of an inch thick. Thin slices soak up the dressing better and add a nice crunch.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, try adding some feta cheese. It adds a nice salty taste. You can also mix in a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes. These small changes can elevate your salad to new heights!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your salad in a clear glass bowl. This shows off the bright colors of your ingredients. Top with fresh dill sprigs for a pop of green. This makes your dish look even more appealing. Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with pita and hummus for a light lunch!

Variations

Additions for a Protein Boost

You can turn this salad into a heartier dish by adding protein. Some tasty options include:

– Grilled chicken: Cut it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in.

– Shrimp: Cooked shrimp adds a nice touch and pairs well with the flavors.

– Chickpeas: These add a great crunch and make the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Adding protein not only boosts flavor but also makes the salad more filling.

Alternative Dressings

While the yogurt dressing is creamy and rich, you can switch it up. Here are some alternatives:

– Vinaigrette: A simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs works well.

– Tahini dressing: This adds a nutty flavor and a creamy texture.

– Avocado dressing: Blend ripe avocado with lemon juice for a fresh twist.

Experimenting with dressings keeps the salad exciting and new.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Using seasonal ingredients can elevate your cucumber dill salad. Try these swaps:

– In summer: Add sweet corn or bell peppers for a colorful crunch.

– In fall: Thinly sliced apples or pears can bring sweetness.

– In winter: Substitute cucumbers with roasted root vegetables for warmth.

Seasonal swaps not only enhance taste but also inspire creativity in your cooking.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your cucumber dill salad fresh, place it in an airtight container. Avoid letting air in, as this can cause the salad to wilt or lose flavor. If you have leftover salad, make sure to cover it tightly. You can use plastic wrap or a lid to seal it well. Store the container in the fridge for best results.

Best Storage Containers

For this salad, glass containers work great. They do not absorb smells and keep the salad fresh. You can also use high-quality plastic containers. Make sure they have a good seal. If you choose reusable bags, ensure they are also airtight. This helps keep your salad crisp and tasty.

Duration of Freshness

Cucumber dill salad stays fresh for about three days in the fridge. After that, the cucumbers may get soggy. If you notice any water pooling at the bottom of the container, it’s best to drain it before serving. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of cucumber and dill?

Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water. They help keep you hydrated. Cucumbers also contain vitamins K and C. These vitamins support bone health and boost your immune system.

Dill adds flavor and some health perks too. It has antioxidants that fight free radicals. Dill may help with digestion and may even ease bloating. Together, cucumbers and dill make a healthy combo!

Can I make cucumber dill salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time! It tastes even better after chilling. Make it a few hours before your meal. Just cover it and put it in the fridge.

Let the flavors mix well. However, if you add tomatoes, wait to add them until just before serving. This keeps them fresh and firm.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

To serve more people, just multiply the ingredients. For example, if you want to serve eight, double everything. Use eight cucumbers and two cups of yogurt.

Keep the same ratios for the dressing. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. This way, everyone enjoys a tasty cucumber dill salad!

In this blog post, I shared key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make cucumber dill salad. I offered tips and variations for flavor and nutrition. Storage advice ensures your salad stays fresh longer. Cucumber and dill bring health benefits, and the recipe adapts easily for larger groups.

Now, you can enjoy this simple, tasty dish. Experiment with flavors and make it your ow