Easy Tzatziki Greek Cucumber Salad Recipe
This easy tzatziki Greek cucumber salad is refreshing summer side dish that you are going to want to add to your menu!
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a fresh and tangy side dish that feels like summer in a bowl. Well, look no further because this Tzatziki Greek Cucumber Salad is about to become your new go-to recipe.
It’s crisp, creamy, and has that authentic Greek vibe we all love. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
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How to Make Tzatziki Greek Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is having a moment and I have to tell you, I’m here for it! Crunchy sliced cucumbers combined with zesty dressing are always a win in my book.
Be sure to check out some of my favorite cucumber salads that you’ll want to try! This smoked salmon cucumber salad and viral cucumber salad are at the top of the list.
For homemade tzatziki dip (because why not make it yourself?) grab these ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons thick plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for the win)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Juice from 1 lemon wedge
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Ingredients
You’ll only need a few simple ingredients from the grocery store.
- Mini cucumbers, sliced (about 1 lb)
- Tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Pickled red onion, sliced
- Feta cheese
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Sea salt
- Ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Slice the mini cucumbers into even rounds—thin slices work best here for that perfect crunch. If you’re using an English cucumber, you can do the same. Chop up the pickled red onion and fresh dill.
2. If you’re making homemade tzatziki, just combine Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill in a large bowl. Give it a good stir until it’s all creamy and well-combined. For an extra creamy texture, you can add a drizzle of olive oil.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced cucumber, onion, dill, and tzatziki sauce together until everything is evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta and a bit more dill on top. Season with a big pinch of salt and fresh ground black pepper. Boom, you’re done!
Tips & Tricks for Cucumber Salad
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: Mini cucumbers or English cucumbers work best for this salad because they have fewer seeds and a higher water content. They stay crunchy even after being mixed with the tzatziki sauce.
- Avoid Soggy Salad: To keep your salad from getting watery, pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before mixing them in. You can also let them sit in a colander with a pinch of salt to draw out excess water. For an extra crisp bite, soak the cucumber slices in cold water for a few minutes before drying.
- Customize Your Tzatziki: If you like your tzatziki sauce extra creamy, add a dollop of sour cream or use full-fat Greek yogurt. For a bit of zest, mix in some grated cucumber or lemon zest.
- Store Leftovers: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, but the cucumbers may lose some crunch. It’s a great addition to your summer meal lineup, alongside pita bread or even potato salads.
- Serving Ideas: Pair this salad with pita chips for a quick snack, or serve it alongside spicy dishes to balance out the heat. It’s also perfect as a refreshing side dish with Middle Eastern or Mediterranean meals. You can also toss in some fresh herbs or parsley for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for tzatziki?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt gives you that thick, creamy texture that makes tzatziki so irresistible. If you use regular yogurt, consider straining it to remove excess moisture.
How do I keep the cucumber salad from becoming too watery?
After slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle them with a little additional salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out some of the excess water content. Then, pat them dry with paper towels before mixing them with the tzatziki. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even grate the cucumber, squeeze out the excess moisture, and add it to the tzatziki dip for an authentic Greek tzatziki experience.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, green onions, or even a touch of lemon zest can make great optional ingredients. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand. You can even add raw onion for a bit more bite, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the richness of the dish.
So there you have it—a refreshing, tangy Greek cucumber salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, enjoying it as a light lunch, or pairing it with your favorite Mediterranean dishes, this simple salad will always be a hit.
Give it a try, and let me know how you like it!
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Easy Tzatziki Greek Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 6-8 mini cucumbers sliced (about 1 lb)
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1/8 cup pickled red onion sliced
- 2 Tbsp feta cheese
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- ground black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the mini cucumbers into even rounds.
- Make the sauce if you’re making homemade tzatziki.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced cucumber, onion, dill, and tzatziki together until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta and a bit more dill on top.
- Season with a big pinch of salt and fresh ground black pepper.