Looking for a refreshing and nutritious salad that's perfect for summer? You've come to the right place! This Avocado Cucumber Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing is incredibly fresh and healthy, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish.
Packed with vibrant flavors from cucumbers, ripe avocados, and a hint of red onion, this salad is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing adds a rich and tangy twist without being too heavy. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs like dill and mint takes this salad to the next level.
You'll love how easy it is to put this salad together. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just looking for a quick and healthy meal, this salad will become a favorite in no time.
Table of Contents
Cucumber Salad Ingredients
Making a perfect cucumber avocado salad starts with good ingredients and knowing how to combine them. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make it right.
Selecting Quality Avocados and Cucumbers
For the best salad, pick ripe avocados and fresh, firm cucumbers. Avocados should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Look for English cucumbers because they have thinner skin and fewer seeds. They add crunch without being watery. If you can't find English cucumbers, regular cucumbers work too, just peel and deseed them.
Other Vegetables, Fruits, and Greens
Add more veggies to your salad for extra flavor. Red onions give a sharp taste and cherry tomatoes add sweetness. Thinly slice the red onions to avoid overpowering the salad. Fresh herbs like mint and dill provide a refreshing taste. You can also include greens like spinach or arugula to make it more filling.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
If you don't have all the ingredients, don't worry. Feta cheese can be skipped if you want a dairy-free salad. Sour cream or mayonnaise can replace Greek yogurt in the dressing if you prefer. Instead of dill, you can use other herbs like parsley or basil. For a tangy twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Herbs and Seasonings
The right herbs and seasonings can elevate your salad. Chopped fresh dill and mint are perfect for this dish. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors. A touch of lemon juice brightens the taste. Don't forget to add olive oil, which helps mix the dressing well and brings everything together.
Making the Cucumber Salad
This guide will walk you through the essential steps for preparing, mixing, and dressing a delicious Cucumber Avocado Salad, including tips to add extra protein.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients to make the prep work quick and easy. Slice two large cucumbers thinly, which ensures they soak up the dressing well. Dice two ripe avocados; their creaminess pairs perfectly with the crisp cucumbers. Thinly slice ¼ red onion. If the onion is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.
Next, chop ¼ cup of fresh dill and ¼ cup of fresh mint. These herbs add freshness to the salad. If you like, you can also crumble about ¼ cup of feta cheese for some extra texture and flavor. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mixing the Main Ingredients
Place your prepared cucumbers, avocados, and red onions in a large mixing bowl. Add in the chopped dill and mint. If you're using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the other ingredients. Gently toss everything together, making sure not to mash the avocados too much. The goal is to keep the avocado chunks intact while the other ingredients get well mixed. A light hand will ensure your salad looks and tastes great.
Adding Proteins to the Salad
To make your cucumber avocado salad heartier, consider adding some protein. Grilled chicken breast or shrimp can easily be tossed in, adding both flavor and substance. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or quinoa are excellent choices. These additions not only give the salad more nutritional value but also make it more filling. Simply cook the protein according to your preference, let it cool, and then mix it into the salad just before you add the dressing.
Crafting a Creamy Dressing
Making the dressing is easy. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar, 1 ½ teaspoons of honey, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic until the honey dissolves. Add ½ cup of plain whole milk Greek yogurt and mix until smooth. Slowly drizzle in ⅓ cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
Season with ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped dill. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Once ready, pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Your creamy cucumber avocado salad is now ready to serve. Enjoy this easy, healthy side dish any time!
RECIPE: Cucumber Avocado Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from one lemon)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 ½ teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (from 1 to 2 cloves)
- ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (or ½ teaspoon dried dill)
Instructions:
Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, diced avocados, and red onion.
- Add the chopped dill and mint to the bowl. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Make the Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, honey, and minced garlic until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Add the plain whole milk Greek yogurt to the mixture and whisk until smooth and well combined.
- While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil to emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy consistency.
- Add the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh chopped dill (or dried dill) to the dressing. Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Combine:
- Pour the creamy Greek yogurt dressing over the cucumber and avocado mixture.
- Gently toss everything together until the salad is well-coated with the dressing.
Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
- Garnish with additional dill or mint if desired.
Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing and creamy cucumber avocado salad!
Nutritional Information
This salad is packed with essential nutrients and is both vegetarian and gluten-free. You get a mix of healthy fats, fiber, and protein along with several vitamins and minerals.
Nutrition Table
Below is a breakdown of the main nutrients per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 10% Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 30% Daily Value |
| Calcium | 8% Daily Value |
| Iron | 4% Daily Value |
These numbers give you an idea of the nutritional benefits and can help you make informed dietary choices.
Health Benefits
This salad offers numerous health benefits. Avocados provide healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. They also contain potassium and fiber, helping to maintain proper body function and digestive health.
Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, promoting hydration. They are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, which support overall health.
Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial for gut health. The yogurt also provides calcium, which is good for your bones.
Using fresh herbs like dill and mint not only boosts flavor but also offers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Red onion introduces more antioxidants, promoting good health.
Dietary Considerations
This salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for people with specific dietary needs. If you want to make it dairy-free, simply skip the feta cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Low-carb dieters will find this salad beneficial due to its low carbohydrate content. The healthy fats from the avocados help you stay full longer without loading up on carbs.
You can reduce the sodium content by using less salt. Adding more herbs like dill and mint can enhance flavor without the need for extra salt. Adjusting the amount of honey used in the dressing can also help control sugar intake.
Serving Suggestions
This Avocado Cucumber Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing is versatile and can be paired with various dishes. Whether you're having a BBQ or a casual dinner, it fits right in.
Accompaniments
This salad is a perfect side dish for summer meals. It pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or turkey burgers.
For a light and refreshing lunch, serve it with a wrap or a sandwich. It's a great way to balance out heavier, more hearty dishes.
If you're hosting a potluck, this salad is a hit. It’s easy to transport and keeps well for a few hours. Everyone loves a fresh and creamy salad!
It's also a fantastic addition to a BBQ. The cool, creamy dressing complements the smokier flavors of the grilled items, making it a refreshing choice.
Presentation Tips
Presentation makes a big difference. Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off its vibrant colors.
For a more elegant touch, you can use individual serving bowls or cups. This makes it easier for guests to serve themselves.
Consider garnishing with some extra fresh dill or mint leaves on top. It not only adds color but also enhances the flavor.
If you are planning to bring this salad to a gathering, pack the salad and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can add a lovely finish, making the dish look more appealing while giving it a rich flavor.
Storing and Freshness
To keep your Avocado Cucumber Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing flavorful and fresh, it's important to follow proper storage techniques. Using the right methods can keep your salad crisp and delicious for a longer time.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your salad in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This prevents the avocado from browning and the cucumbers from getting soggy. Place the container in the refrigerator right after making the salad.
Keep the salad cold by storing it at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). The Greek yogurt dressing should always be kept cold, as it contains dairy products which can spoil if left out.
Consume the salad within two days of preparation for the best taste and texture. If the salad has sat out for more than two hours, it's better to discard it to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Best Practices for Freshness
Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent them from turning mushy too quickly. The cucumbers should be fresh and crisp to add a refreshing crunch to the salad.
Cut and prepare the ingredients just before serving to keep them as fresh as possible. Dress the salad right before eating, rather than mixing in the dressing earlier. This helps keep the cucumbers crisp.
If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately in another airtight container. Add the dressing to the salad just before serving to preserve the fresh flavors and crisp texture of the vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section covers common queries about the avocado cucumber salad with creamy Greek yogurt dressing, including ingredients, adjustments, and storage tips.
What ingredients do I need for a simple avocado cucumber salad with a Greek yogurt dressing?
You will need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper
For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1½ teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
Are there any optional ingredients that can be omitted or replaced?
Yes, you can leave out the feta cheese if you prefer or replace it with another type of cheese. You can also skip the fresh mint if it's not to your taste.
What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?
If you don't have white wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even rice vinegar as a substitute.
How can I adjust the flavor if the dressing is too tangy or too bland?
If the dressing is too tangy, add a bit more honey to balance it out. If it's too bland, a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavor.
What can I do to ensure the salad has a balanced texture?
Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly and dice the avocados evenly. Also, gently toss the salad to avoid mashing the avocados.
What should I do if the dressing separates?
If the dressing separates, give it a good whisk or shake it in a sealed container to recombine the ingredients.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
To slow down browning, you can toss the avocado pieces in a little lemon juice before mixing them into the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for people with specific dietary restrictions?
This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by omitting the feta cheese. To make it vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
What are some good dishes to serve alongside this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty soup. It can also be a refreshing side dish for a sandwich or wrap.
How can I store leftover avocado cucumber salad to maintain freshness?
Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. To keep it fresher, squeeze some lemon juice over the avocado pieces before refrigerating. Consume within one day for the best taste and texture.
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