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Easy Tzatziki Cucumber Salad

chef Laya
Cool, creamy Greek cucumber salad with yogurt, garlic, and freshherbs. This refreshing side dish is perfect for grilling season and pairsbeautifully with Mediterranean dishes.
Prepr Time 15 minutes
1 hour
ToTal Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Type of plate Side Dish
kitchen Mediterranean
Serving 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers or 4 Persian cucumbers
  • 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for draining cucumber
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumbers using a box grater or food processor. Alternatively, dice into small, pea-sized pieces.
  • Place the grated or diced cucumber in a fine-mesh strainer or colander. Sprinkle generously with salt and toss to distribute evenly.
  • Let the cucumber sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the salt to draw out excess moisture.
  • Using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the cucumber. This step is crucial to prevent watery salad.
  • Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  • Add salt, white pepper, chopped dill, and chopped mint. Stir to distribute the herbs evenly.
  • Combine: Add the thoroughly drained cucumber to the yogurt mixture. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the cucumber pieces too much.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, lemon juice, or herbs to achieve your preferred balance.
  • Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For best results, make 2-4 hours ahead to allow flavors to meld.
  • Stir gently before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.