Creamy Cucumber & Dill Dressing
A vibrant, gut-healthy dressing made with creamy labneh, refreshing cucumber, and aromatic dill, perfect for elevating salads, grilled meats, or as a light dip.
For 4 servings
Prepare the cucumber: Grate half a medium cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and firmly squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial for a creamy, non-watery dressing.
Mince the garlic: Finely mince the small garlic clove. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use a garlic press.
Combine ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the squeezed grated cucumber, labneh, fresh chopped dill, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until they are well combined and the dressing appears smooth and uniform.
Adjust consistency: If the dressing is too thick for your preference, add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until your desired pourable consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your palate.
Chill for best flavor (optional): For optimal flavor development, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Serve: Drizzle generously over your favorite salads, use as a refreshing sauce for grilled chicken or fish, or serve as a light and healthy dip for fresh vegetables.
Store leftovers: Transfer any leftover dressing to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeeze that cucumber: Don't underestimate the importance of thoroughly squeezing the grated cucumber. Excess moisture will dilute the dressing and make it less creamy.
- 2Quality matters: Use a good quality, full-fat labneh or Greek yogurt for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. The higher fat content helps emulsify the dressing.
- 3Adjust to your taste: Lemon juice, salt, and pepper are all to taste. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust until it's perfect for you. A little extra lemon can brighten the whole dressing.
- 4Make ahead: This dressing can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious. Just give it a good whisk before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbal Twist
Replace half the dill with fresh chopped mint, parsley, or chives for a different aromatic profile and added complexity.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a subtle, warming heat.
Vegan AlternativeVegan Alternative
Substitute the labneh with a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (such as almond or cashew-based) to make this dressing suitable for a vegan diet.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Probiotic Rich
Labneh, being a strained yogurt, is packed with beneficial live cultures (probiotics) that support a healthy gut microbiome, aid digestion, and boost immune function.
Hydrating & Nutrient-Dense
Cucumbers are primarily water, contributing to hydration, and also provide essential vitamins like K and C, along with various antioxidants and minerals.
Antioxidant Power from Fresh Herbs
Fresh dill is rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and monoterpenes, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for labneh. It offers a similar creamy texture and probiotic benefits. Just ensure it's unsweetened.
