The viral cucumber salad Hits ️@logansfewd is the originator of this masterpiece
The viral cucumber salad HITS‼️@logansfewd is the originator of this masterpiece is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by NOIA Wholistics® on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 25 min
Cost: $9.56 total, $2.39 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Cucumber (Medium cucumbers, sliced into half‑moons)
- 1/4 cup Red Onion (Thinly sliced)
- 1 can Canned Tuna in Water (About 5 oz, drained)
- 1 tablespoon Capers (Rinsed and drained)
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese (Crumpled)
- 1/2 cup Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt (For the dressing)
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar (Adds acidity and depth)
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Dill (Finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Juice of about ½ a lemon, freshly squeezed)
- to taste Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
- to taste Salt (Optional, depending on feta saltiness)
Instructions
Slice Cucumbers and Onion
Place the cucumbers on the cutting board and slice them into thin half‑moon pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
Time: PT5M
Combine Vegetables
Transfer the sliced cucumbers and onion to a large mixing bowl. Add the rinsed capers and chopped dill.
Time: PT2M
Add Tuna and Feta
Flake the drained tuna over the vegetables and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Yogurt Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the nonfat Greek yogurt, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.
Time: PT3M
Dress the Salad
Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT3M
Serve or Chill
Serve immediately at room temperature or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 15 g
- Carbohydrates
- 8 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein, Pescatarian
Allergens: Fish, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
- Instead of Red Onion: White onion, Sweet onion
- Instead of Canned Tuna in Water: Canned salmon, Cooked shredded chicken
- Instead of Capers: Chopped green olives
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Goat cheese, Ricotta
- Instead of Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt: Regular plain yogurt, Skyr
- Instead of Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar
- Instead of Fresh Dill: Fresh parsley
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Whisk or Fork
- Serving Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Draining and patting the cucumbers dry prevents a watery salad.
- Whisking the yogurt dressing until smooth ensures no lumps.
- Tossing gently preserves the texture of feta and tuna.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra brightness, add a pinch of fresh mint along with dill.
- A drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil over the finished salad adds a silky mouthfeel without compromising the low‑fat profile.
Troubleshooting
Salad is watery after dressing.
Pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before mixing and keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin it with a teaspoon of water, extra lemon juice, or a splash of olive oil until desired consistency.
Salad is too salty.
Rinse capers thoroughly, reduce added salt, and consider using a lower‑salt feta or omitting extra salt altogether.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate if storing longer than 1 hour.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of cucumber and yogurt will degrade.
Room temperature: Do not leave out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the yogurt dressing up to 24 hours ahead and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.
- Slice cucumbers and onions a few hours ahead, then drain excess moisture before assembling.
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 refreshing qualities in hot climates. They often feature yogurt‑based dressings, fresh herbs, and simple vinaigrette, reflecting the region’s emphasis on light, vegetable‑forward dishes.
What are traditional regional variations of cucumber salad in Mediterranean cuisine?
In Greece, the classic "Tzatziki" mixes cucumber with garlic, dill, and thick yogurt. In Turkey, "Cacik" adds mint and sometimes walnuts. In the Levant, cucumbers are tossed with sumac, olive oil, and pomegranate molasses. This recipe blends those influences with tuna for added protein.
How is cucumber salad traditionally served in Mediterranean households?
It is typically served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze spread. The salad is often enjoyed chilled, sometimes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before eating.
What occasions or celebrations feature cucumber salads in Mediterranean culture?
Cucumber salads appear at summer family gatherings, picnics, and during Ramadan as a refreshing break from heavier dishes. They are also common at Easter brunches and festive outdoor barbecues.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Mediterranean cucumber salad, and what are acceptable substitutes?
Key ingredients include crisp cucumbers, yogurt (or kefir), fresh herbs like dill or mint, and a splash of vinegar or lemon. Substitutes can be low‑fat Greek yogurt for regular yogurt, parsley for dill, and balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar without losing the essence of the dish.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with this Tuna & Cucumber Salad?
Pair it with grilled lemon‑herb chicken, roasted lamb kebabs, or a simple quinoa tabbouleh. A side of warm pita bread and hummus also complements the bright flavors of the salad.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Tuna & Cucumber Salad?
Common errors include not draining the cucumbers, which makes the salad soggy, over‑mixing the feta which turns it mushy, and adding too much dressing which overwhelms the fresh vegetables. Follow the critical steps for draining and gentle tossing.
Why does this recipe use nonfat Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for the dressing?
Nonfat Greek yogurt provides a tangy, protein‑rich base with far fewer calories and fat than cream cheese, keeping the salad light while still delivering a creamy texture that clings to the cucumber slices.
Can I make Tuna & Cucumber Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the yogurt dressing up to a day in advance and keep it sealed in the fridge. Store the sliced cucumbers and onions separately, then combine everything just before serving to maintain crunch. Refrigerate the assembled salad no longer than 2 days.
What does the YouTube channel NOIA Wholistics® specialize in?
The YouTube channel NOIA Wholistics® focuses on wholesome, nutrient‑dense recipes that blend whole‑food nutrition with easy‑to‑follow cooking techniques, often emphasizing plant‑forward meals, balanced macros, and mindful eating.
How does the YouTube channel NOIA Wholistics®'s approach to Mediterranean‑inspired cooking differ from other health‑focused channels?
NOIA Wholistics® integrates traditional Mediterranean flavors with modern nutrition science, prioritizing low‑fat dairy alternatives, high‑protein additions like tuna, and clear explanations of macro benefits, whereas many other channels may focus solely on vegan or low‑carb adaptations without the cultural context.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
