Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Creamy cucumber salad recipe with fresh dill, shredded carrots, green onions and garlic yogurt dressing is a refreshing side dish that's perfect for warm days and everyday meals. Crisp cucumbers are tossed with sweet shredded carrots, fresh herbs, and a rich, creamy yogurt dressing seasoned with garlic and herbs. Every bite is cool, crunchy, and packed with fresh flavor. Whether you're serving it at a summer barbecue, family dinner, picnic, or meal prep, this simple cucumber salad is quick to make and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 mini cucumbers or 2 large cucumbers, chopped (500 g)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded (75 g)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (30 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (8 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (8 g)
For the Creamy Garlic Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (120 ml)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey (5 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or Italian seasoning (1 g)
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Shred the carrot, slice the green onions, and finely chop the fresh dill and parsley.
- Mix the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and dried dill until smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: Add the cucumbers, carrot, green onions, dill, and parsley to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
- Toss gently: Mix until every piece is evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to become extra refreshing.
- Serve: Garnish with extra fresh dill, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.
Pro Tips
Use chilled cucumbers for the crispest texture. Remove excess moisture from the cucumbers with paper towels if making the salad ahead of time. Fresh dill gives the salad its classic flavor, while Greek yogurt creates a creamy dressing without feeling heavy.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy cucumber salad is delicious alongside grilled chicken, steak, salmon, shrimp, roasted vegetables, burgers, sandwiches, or barbecue favorites. It also makes a refreshing addition to picnics and potlucks.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as the cucumbers may release some liquid. For the freshest texture, prepare the dressing ahead and mix everything together shortly before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish, this Creamy Cucumber Salad is an excellent choice. The crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and creamy garlic yogurt dressing create a refreshing salad that's easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings. It's simple, colorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Q2: Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?
Absolutely. Sour cream creates a richer dressing, or use half sour cream and half Greek yogurt.
Q3: What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, turkey, or steak are all excellent choices.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Radishes, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado all make delicious additions.