Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Amoretti Test Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $34.42 total, $8.61 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large Cucumber (sliced into 1/4‑inch half‑moon pieces)
- 0.25 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced fine)
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (full‑fat or low‑fat)
- 0.5 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Amoret Mediterranean Spice Almond Butter (gluten‑free, no added sugar)
- 2 tablespoons Amaretti Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with Kalamata Olives (high‑quality infused olive oil)
Instructions
Slice Cucumbers
Place the cucumbers on the cutting board and slice them into half‑moon pieces about 1/4 inch thick.
Time: PT2M
Slice Red Onion
Thinly slice the red onion into fine rings or half‑rings.
Time: PT2M
Mince Garlic
Peel the garlic clove and mince it into a fine paste.
Time: PT1M
Prepare Yogurt Dressing
In a small bowl combine the Greek yogurt, almond butter, infused olive oil, Amoret Mediterranean spice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Time: PT3M
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta, and chopped dill. Pour the yogurt dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Serve or Chill
Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 5g
- Carbohydrates
- 10g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Low-Carb
Allergens: Milk, Tree nuts
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
- Instead of Red Onion: White onion
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Plain Greek Yogurt: Regular plain yogurt, Kefir
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Goat cheese
- Instead of Fresh Dill: Fresh parsley
- Instead of Amoret Mediterranean Spice Almond Butter: Regular almond butter
- Instead of Amaretti Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with Kalamata Olives: Extra virgin olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Small Whisk or Fork (optional)
- Serving Bowl or Plate (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Slice cucumbers to the proper thickness
- Prepare the yogurt‑almond butter dressing until smooth
- Toss the salad gently to keep cucumbers crisp
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use seedless English cucumbers for a milder flavor and fewer seeds
- Chill the mixing bowl and dressing ingredients for an extra refreshing bite
- A drizzle of extra infused olive oil just before serving adds a glossy finish and extra aroma
Troubleshooting
Cucumber releases too much water and the salad becomes soggy.
After slicing, sprinkle the cucumber pieces with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 5 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before mixing.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin the dressing with a teaspoon of cold water or an extra drizzle of olive oil until the desired consistency is reached.
Salad is too salty.
Add a little more Greek yogurt or a splash of extra olive oil to balance the salt, and taste before serving.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3‑4 days. Stir before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become watery.
Room temperature: Best served within 2 hours of preparation.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The salad can be prepared up to 2 hours ahead; keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving for maximum crunch
- If making a day ahead, store dressing and vegetables separately and toss together before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber salads in Mediterranean cuisine?
Cucumber salads have been a staple across the Mediterranean for centuries, prized for their cooling effect in hot climates and their ability to showcase fresh, locally grown produce. They often appear alongside mezze spreads, paired with yogurt‑based dressings that reflect the region’s love of dairy and olive oil.
What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber‑yogurt salads in Greek and broader Mediterranean cooking?
In Greece, the classic version is "Tzatziki," which mixes cucumber, garlic, yogurt, and dill, sometimes with a splash of vinegar. In Turkey, a similar salad called "Cacık" adds mint and sometimes walnuts. The Amoretti Test Kitchen version adds almond butter and olive‑olive oil for a modern twist.
How is a Mediterranean cucumber yogurt salad traditionally served in Greek households?
It is typically served chilled as part of a mezze platter, alongside olives, bread, and grilled meats, or as a side to grilled fish. The salad is meant to be eaten with a spoon or scooped onto pita bread.
During which occasions or celebrations is cucumber salad commonly featured in Mediterranean culture?
Cucumber‑yogurt salads are popular at summer barbecues, family gatherings, and religious holidays such as Easter, where fresh, light dishes balance richer festive foods.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Mediterranean cucumber yogurt salad versus the modern additions used by Amoretti Test Kitchen?
Traditional recipes rely on cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Amoretti Test Kitchen adds Amoret Mediterranean Spice Almond Butter and olive oil infused with Kalamata olives, which introduce nutty depth and a briny olive flavor not found in classic versions.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with this cucumber yogurt salad from Amoretti Test Kitchen?
It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb kebabs, lemon‑herb roasted chicken, falafel, or a simple platter of hummus and pita. The bright acidity also complements rich dishes like moussaka or baked fish with tomatoes.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Mediterranean cucumber yogurt salad from Amoretti Test Kitchen?
Common errors include over‑salting the cucumbers, which draws out excess water, not mincing the garlic finely enough, and mixing the dressing too early, which can cause the yogurt to separate. Also, avoid over‑tossing the salad, which can bruise the cucumber pieces.
Why does this Amoretti Test Kitchen recipe use almond butter and olive‑olive oil instead of a simple lemon juice dressing?
Almond butter adds a creamy, nutty body that mimics the richness of traditional tahini‑based sauces, while the infused olive oil contributes a subtle briny depth from the Kalamata olives. This creates a more complex flavor profile while keeping the dish gluten‑free.
Can I make the Mediterranean cucumber yogurt salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 2 hours in advance. Keep the dressing separate in a sealed container, store the sliced vegetables in the refrigerator, and combine just before serving to maintain crispness.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the dressing is properly emulsified?
The dressing should be smooth, slightly thick but pourable, with a uniform pale‑cream color. No visible lumps of almond butter or separated yogurt should remain.
What does the YouTube channel Amoretti Test Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Amoretti Test Kitchen specializes in approachable, health‑focused recipes that blend classic Mediterranean flavors with modern, ingredient‑driven twists, often highlighting premium pantry staples and easy‑to‑follow techniques.
How does the YouTube channel Amoretti Test Kitchen's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other Mediterranean cooking channels?
Amoretti Test Kitchen emphasizes ingredient storytelling—showcasing specialty products like almond butter and infused olive oil—while keeping recipes quick, gluten‑free, and suitable for everyday home cooks, whereas many other channels focus on traditional, sometimes time‑intensive preparations.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
