Cucumber Dill Salad Recipe
Cucumber Dill Salad is a fresh, creamy, and refreshing side dish made with crisp cucumber, fragrant fresh dill, red onion, and a zesty Greek yoghurt dressing. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy salad is perfect for BBQs, family meals, picnics, or warm summer days.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Sharp Kitchen Knife
- 1 Chopping Board
- 1 Small Spoon Or Whisk
- 1 Salad Serving Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 kg English cucumbers
- ⅓ cup fresh dill - chopped
- 1 small red onion - finely sliced
- 225 g full-fat Greek yoghurt
- 2¼ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2¼ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon finely grated garlic
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt
- ⅓ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Creamy Dressing
- Add the Greek yoghurt, olive oil and lemon juice to a small mixing bowl.
- Add the grated garlic, salt and black pepper.
- Stir or whisk until smooth and evenly combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Slice The Cucumbers
- Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly.
- Cut each cucumber lengthways.
- Slice into approximately 3mm-thick pieces to retain a satisfying crunch.
- Transfer the cucumber to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Prepare The Onion And Dill
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion.
- Wash and finely chop the fresh dill.
- Add the onion and dill to the cucumber.
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
- Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber mixture.
- Gently toss or fold until the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Avoid vigorous mixing to preserve the cucumber's texture.
- Taste and adjust the salt, pepper or lemon juice if needed.
Step 5: Chill Or Serve
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
- Alternatively, refrigerate briefly before serving.
- For the freshest texture, enjoy the salad on the day it is made.
Notes
- 🥒 Choose Firm Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm English or Persian cucumbers for the best crunch and texture.
- 🌿 Use Fresh Dill: Fresh dill gives the salad its vibrant colour, delicate aroma, and classic herbal flavour.
- 💧 Control Excess Moisture: Pat the cucumber slices dry before dressing to help prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- 🥣 Use Thick Greek Yoghurt: Full-fat Greek yoghurt creates a creamy dressing that coats the cucumber beautifully.
- 🍋 Balance The Dressing: Taste the yoghurt dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the lemon juice, salt and pepper to your preference.
- 🧅 Slice The Onion Thinly: Finely sliced red onion distributes its sweet, sharp flavour without overpowering the cucumber.
- 🥗 Toss Gently: Fold the ingredients together carefully to keep the cucumber slices crisp and intact.
- 🧊 Serve Fresh: For the best texture, serve the salad soon after dressing. If storing leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container and enjoy within one day.