Radish & Cucumber Yogurt Salad
This vibrant Radish & Cucumber Yogurt Salad is a refreshing and crunchy delight, perfect as a light meal or a zesty side dish. Its creamy Greek yogurt dressing beautifully balances the peppery bite of radishes and the cool crispness of cucumber, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dish.
For 3 servings
Wash and prepare the vegetables: Trim the ends off the radishes and slice them thinly, either by hand or using a mandoline. Wash the English cucumber and slice it into thin rounds or half-moons.
Prepare the dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Whisk the dressing ingredients together thoroughly until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the vegetables to the dressing: Gently add the sliced radishes and cucumbers to the bowl with the yogurt dressing.
Toss to coat: Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold the vegetables into the dressing until they are evenly coated.
Chill (optional but recommended): For best flavor and a more refreshing experience, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve immediately: Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss. If desired, drizzle with a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill.
Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or an appetizer.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For uniform and extra-thin slices of radish and cucumber, consider using a mandoline slicer. This ensures a consistent texture and professional presentation.
- 2If preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the sliced vegetables and the dressing separate in the refrigerator. Combine them no more than 30 minutes before serving to maintain the crispness of the radishes and cucumbers.
- 3Adjust the tanginess to your preference by adding more or less lemon juice. A pinch of sugar or a tiny bit of honey can also balance the flavors if the yogurt is very tart.
- 4Always use fresh dill for this recipe; dried dill will not provide the same vibrant, fresh flavor that is essential to this salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Boost
Add 1-2 tablespoons of other fresh herbs like chopped mint, parsley, or chives along with the dill for an even more complex and aromatic flavor profile.
Protein PowerProtein Power
Transform this side dish into a more substantial meal by stirring in cooked, shredded chicken, canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained), or crumbled feta cheese.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Introduce a subtle heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the yogurt dressing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydration & Electrolytes
Cucumbers are over 95% water, significantly contributing to daily hydration, while Greek yogurt provides essential electrolytes like potassium and calcium, crucial for muscle function and fluid balance.
Digestive Health
Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion. Radishes contribute dietary fiber, further promoting digestive regularity.
Antioxidant Rich
Radishes are packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give them their red color and help combat oxidative stress. Dill also contains flavonoids, offering additional antioxidant benefits.
Frequently asked questions
While best served immediately for maximum crunch, you can prepare the dressing and slice the vegetables up to 4 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
