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

  1. 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

  2. Slice the Shallot

    Trim the shallot ends and slice it very thinly on a cutting board.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Slice the Cucumber

    Wash the cucumber, trim the ends, and slice it thinly (about 1/8‑inch thick).

    Time: PT5M

  4. Chop the Herbs

    Roughly chop the cilantro and mint leaves.

    Time: PT5M

  5. 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

  6. 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

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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The 5 ingredient cucumber salad to end all cucumber salads

Recipe by Zestful Kitchen

A refreshing, light cucumber and carrot salad tossed in a creamy whole‑milk Greek yogurt dressing. Loaded with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, this no‑cook side dish is perfect for summer meals, picnics, or as a healthy accompaniment to any main.

EasyMediterraneanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
18m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.36
Total cost
$1.09
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • 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.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife and keep fingertips curled back to avoid cuts.
  • Do not leave the yogurt dressing at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber salads in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber salad in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

How is a cucumber salad traditionally served in Mediterranean households?

A

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.

cultural
Q

During which occasions or celebrations is cucumber salad commonly featured in Mediterranean culture?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a classic Mediterranean cucumber salad?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad?

A

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.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use whole‑milk Greek yogurt instead of low‑fat yogurt?

A

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.

technical
Q

Can I make Light Herby Yogurt Cucumber Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

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.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Zestful Kitchen specialize in?

A

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.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Zestful Kitchen's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

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.

channel

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