The 5 ingredient cucumber salad to end all cucumber salads
The 5 ingredient cucumber salad to end all cucumber salads is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Zestful Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 18 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 25 min
Cost: $4.36 total, $1.09 per serving
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt (whole‑milk, plain)
- 1 tablespoon White Wine Vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 small Shallot (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium Cucumber (thinly sliced; seedless preferred)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 cup Mint (chopped)
Instructions
Make the Yogurt Dressing
In the mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Slice the Shallot
Trim the shallot ends and slice it very thinly on a cutting board.
Time: PT3M
Slice the Cucumber
Wash the cucumber, trim the ends, and slice it thinly (about 1/8‑inch thick).
Time: PT5M
Chop the Herbs
Roughly chop the cilantro and mint leaves.
Time: PT5M
Combine All Ingredients
Add the sliced shallot, cucumber, and chopped herbs to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 8 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low‑Carb, Keto‑Friendly
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: full‑fat plain yogurt, sour cream
- Instead of White Wine Vinegar: lemon juice
- Instead of Olive Oil: avocado oil
- Instead of Shallot: scallion, red onion
- Instead of Cucumber: zucchini
- Instead of Cilantro: parsley
- Instead of Mint: basil
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
- Tongs (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the yogurt dressing until completely smooth; lumps will affect texture.
- Slice cucumber thinly for a delicate bite and to allow the dressing to coat evenly.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted pepitas or sliced almonds just before serving.
- A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the herb flavors.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is lumpy.
Whisk vigorously or blend briefly; ensure the yogurt is at room temperature before mixing.
Cucumber becomes soggy.
Salt the cucumber slices and let them sit 5 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before adding to the salad.
Salad is too tangy.
Add a little more Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil to balance the acidity.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Toss again before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become watery.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours; beyond that, keep chilled.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the yogurt dressing up to 24 hours ahead and store it sealed in the refrigerator.
- Slice cucumber and shallot ahead of time, then keep them dry in a separate container; combine just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber salads in Mediterranean cuisine?
Cucumber salads have long been a staple in Mediterranean diets, prized for their cooling effect in hot climates and their ability to showcase fresh, locally grown produce. Historically, they were served alongside mezze platters and grilled meats to provide a refreshing contrast.
What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber salad in Mediterranean cuisine?
In Greece, cucumber is often combined with feta, olives, and a simple olive‑oil‑vinegar dressing. In Turkey, a version called "cacık" mixes cucumber with yogurt, garlic, and dill. In the Levant, cucumber salads may include mint, sumac, and pomegranate molasses.
How is a cucumber salad traditionally served in Mediterranean households?
It is typically served chilled as a side dish or mezze, placed on a large platter and eaten with a spoon or fork. It often accompanies grilled fish, lamb, or rice dishes, and is sometimes garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil.
During which occasions or celebrations is cucumber salad commonly featured in Mediterranean culture?
Cucumber salads appear at family gatherings, summer barbecues, and religious holidays such as Easter and Ramadan, where they provide a light, hydrating counterpoint to richer dishes.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a classic Mediterranean cucumber salad?
Key ingredients include crisp cucumbers, full‑fat yogurt or feta, extra‑virgin olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, fresh herbs like dill or mint, and a pinch of salt. Optional additions are garlic, olives, and sumac for regional flair.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled halloumi, lemon‑herb roasted chicken, lamb kebabs, falafel, or a simple quinoa pilaf. The bright flavors also complement a mezze spread featuring hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad?
Common errors include using low‑fat yogurt (which can become watery), over‑mixing the cucumber which makes it mushy, and not seasoning the dressing enough before adding the vegetables. Also, adding the dressing too early can cause the cucumber to release excess water.
Why does this recipe use whole‑milk Greek yogurt instead of low‑fat yogurt?
Whole‑milk Greek yogurt provides a richer, creamier texture that coats the cucumber and herbs without becoming runny. The higher fat content also balances the acidity of the vinegar, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Can I make Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Slice the cucumber and shallot separately, store them dry, and combine everything just before serving to maintain crunch.
What does the YouTube channel Zestful Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Zestful Kitchen focuses on fresh, health‑forward recipes that highlight seasonal produce, simple techniques, and flavorful dressings, often with a Mediterranean or global twist.
How does the YouTube channel Zestful Kitchen's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Zestful Kitchen emphasizes quick, no‑cook or minimal‑cook dishes that retain the natural brightness of ingredients, using whole‑food fats like olive oil and full‑fat dairy, whereas many other channels rely on more elaborate cooking methods or lower‑fat substitutes.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
