Description
A creamy, refreshing, and protein-packed cucumber salad made with thick Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and crisp cucumbers. This healthy salad is perfect for meal prep, weight loss, or a quick high-protein lunch. Enjoy it as a light main dish or a flavorful side with grilled chicken or fish.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Salad:
2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat for creaminess)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
½ cup chickpeas or 1 cup grilled chicken (optional for extra protein)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. If desired, lightly salt them and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine
Add cucumbers and red onion to the bowl. Toss until evenly coated. Fold in chickpeas or grilled chicken if using.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. Garnish with extra dill and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tuna, tofu, or cottage cheese for even more protein.
- Weight-Loss Friendly: Use nonfat Greek yogurt for fewer calories while keeping protein high.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if liquid separates.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip chickpeas and keep it yogurt-based for a low-carb, high-protein cucumber salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad / Healthy Lunch
- Method: No-Cook / Mixed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired