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Creamy Cucumber Dill Salad — Fresh, Cooling, and Mediterranean-Inspired*

When you need a dish that’s refreshing, cooling, and effortlessly elegant, this Cucumber Dill Salad delivers every time. Crisp cucumbers meet fragrant fresh dill, thinly sliced red onion, and a silky Greek yogurt dressing brightened with lemon. The result is a salad that’s light yet satisfying—perfect for warm days, balanced meals, or as a soothing contrast to bold mains. This recipe celebrates simple ingredients and clean flavors. Cucumbers provide crunch and hydration, dill adds a bright herbal note, and the creamy yogurt dressing ties everything together without feeling heavy. It’s a timeless side that fits beautifully into Mediterranean-style meals and everyday cooking alike. Why you’ll love this Cucumber Dill Salad: Cooling and refreshing with every bite Creamy without heaviness thanks to Greek yogurt Quick to prepare and ideal for make-ahead Versatile as a side, topping, or light meal component
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Rest Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • These ingredients are carefully balanced for texture brightness, and creaminess.
Salad Base
  • 1 ½ lb cucumbers thinly sliced
  • ½ red onion very thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh dill finely chopped
Creamy Dressing
  • ¾ cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic finely minced or paste
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Using full-fat Greek yogurt creates a rich velvety dressing that clings beautifully to the cucumbers.

Equipment

  • Get these tools ready before you start:
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife or mandoline
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Thin, even slicing helps the cucumbers absorb flavor while staying crisp.

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat dry. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons, depending on size. Place the slices into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Slice the Onion
  1. Thinly slice the red onion. For a milder flavor, separate the slices and add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Step 3: Chop the Dill
  1. Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the cucumber mixture. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth, creamy, and well combined.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed—add a pinch more salt for balance or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Step 6: Combine Salad and Dressing
  1. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold until all slices are evenly coated.
Step 7: Rest for Flavor
  1. Cover and refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld while keeping the cucumbers crisp.
Step 8: Final Toss and Serve
  1. Give the salad a final gentle toss before serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
Serving Notes
This salad is best served chilled
Stir gently before serving as dressing may settle
Avoid freezing; cucumbers lose their crisp texture when thawed.
🥄 Variations
Customize your Cucumber Dill Salad while keeping its refreshing core:
Extra Creamy: Add an additional 2–3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
Lighter Texture: Thin the dressing with a splash of water or lemon juice
Herb Mix: Add parsley or chives alongside dill
Crunch Boost: Add thinly sliced radishes
Tangy Twist: Increase lemon juice slightly for more brightness
Each variation keeps the salad fresh, cooling, and balanced.
❓ 10 FAQs
Should I peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional; thin skins add texture and color.
How do I prevent watery salad?
Use firm cucumbers and avoid salting them in advance.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead and stir before serving.
Is full-fat yogurt necessary?
It provides the best texture, but lower-fat works with slightly less creaminess.
Can I use dried dill?
Fresh dill is best for aroma and flavor.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes, mild flavors and creamy dressing make it approachable.
Can I add protein?
Serve alongside grilled chicken or beef for a complete meal.
Why does the onion taste strong?
Slice very thinly; resting mellows its sharpness.
Does lemon juice replace vinegar?
Yes, it provides brightness without harsh acidity.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—it scales easily for gatherings.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cucumber Dill Salad is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. Crisp cucumbers, fragrant dill, and a smooth yogurt dressing come together in a dish that’s cooling, comforting, and endlessly versatile. Whether served as a side, a topping, or part of a light meal, it brings balance and brightness to the table.
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s quick, wholesome, and effortlessly elegant, this Cucumber Dill Salad is a must-try—and one you’ll return to again and again.