Description
A refreshing and protein-packed cucumber salad perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner. Creamy Greek yogurt or cottage cheese pairs with crisp cucumbers, herbs, and optional chicken or tuna for a satisfying, low-calorie, high-protein meal. Ideal for weight loss, post-workout meals, or just a healthy snack.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 2–4):
For the Salad Base:
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 cup Greek yogurt (or ½ cup Greek yogurt + ½ cup cottage cheese for extra creaminess)
1–2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creamier texture)
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Protein Options (choose one or mix):
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 can (5–6 oz) tuna, drained
2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Optional Add-Ins:
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Sliced radishes
Sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice cucumbers (use a mandoline for even slices).
Optional: Lightly salt cucumbers and let sit 10 minutes, then drain excess water to avoid a watery salad.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble Salad
Add cucumbers and protein choice (chicken, tuna, or eggs) to the dressing.
Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Garnish with extra dill, paprika, or sliced radishes if desired.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Meal Prep: Keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Version: Use cottage cheese or add chickpeas instead of meat.
- Extra Protein: Mix Greek yogurt with protein powder (unflavored) for an extra boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if adding chicken or eggs)
- Category: Salad / Healthy Snack / Meal Prep
- Method: No-Bake / Mix / Chill
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
