9 April, 2025
Cucumber Salad Recipe with Yogurt and Spices
If you’re bored with the usual Green Salads and Creamy Dressings, this Cucumber Salad with Yogurt or Hung Curd and Spices will wake up your palate. Imagine crisp Cucumber Ribbons, a silky, tangy Yogurt or Curd base, and just the right hint of Spices. It’s not just refreshing—it’s a whole mood!
Cucumber salad is that cool, crunchy companion that makes any meal better.
Why Cucumber Salad is a Go-To Dish
It’s fresh, fast, and fuss-free. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you get a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Plus, Cucumbers are hydrating, making this salad perfect for hot weather or detox diets.
Health Benefits of Cucumber
Low in calories, high in water content, and packed with nutrients like Vitamin K and antioxidants—Cucumbers are a wellness warrior. They aid digestion, fight inflammation, and keep your skin glowing. What’s not to love?
This recipe keeps it simple yet flavorful. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 Cucumber 100 Grams (fresh)
- 1 cup or 250 Grams Hung Curd for creaminess or thick Plain Yogurt Greek-style
Spices & Flavor Boosters
- ½ tsp Sesame Seeds (toasted)
- ¼ tsp Sugar
- ¼ tsp Chilli Flakes
- ¼ tsp Red Chili Powder or Paprika – for heat and color
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp Soy Sauce
- Fresh Coriander Leaves – chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Cucumber Salad:
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
- Wash the Cucumbers thoroughly.
- Using a vegetable peeler or julienne slicer, slice them lengthwise into thin, ribbon-like strips.
- These long pieces not only look elegant but soak up the flavors beautifully.
Tip: No need to peel the cucumbers if they have thin, tender skin (like English or Persian cucumbers). But do taste one to make sure it’s not bitter.
Step 2: Make the Spiced Yogurt Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk the Yogurt or Hung Curd until smooth and creamy.
- Add in all the spices; Red Chili Powder or Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt, and Chilli Flakes.
- Also, add Sesame Seeds, Sugar, and Soy Sauce.
- Mix it all up and let the flavors blend.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Toss the Cucumber Ribbons gently into the Yogurt mixture.
- Coat well, but don’t overmix—you want the ribbons to stay long and delicate.
- Sprinkle fresh Herbs, Chilli Flakes, and Sesame Seeds on top for a finishing touch.
Chill the Salad in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving. Trust me, the flavors intensify beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Version
- It’s creamy but light – thanks to yogurt instead of heavy mayonnaise or cream.
- Spice lovers rejoice! – The spices add that bold, Indian street-food vibe.
- Visually beautiful – The ribbon-cut cucumbers elevate the presentation effortlessly.
- Quick & Healthy – You can whip it up in 10 minutes and it’s low-calorie too.
Customization Ideas
Make it vegan
Swap regular yogurt for a plant-based option like coconut or almond yogurt.
Add a crunch
Sprinkle roasted peanuts, crushed papdi, or sev on top just before serving.
Make it a raita hybrid
Add finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies to turn this into a full-on raita that doubles as a side for pulao or parathas.
What to Pair It With
- Grilled paneer tikka – It cools down the spices.
- Biryani or pulao – This salad makes a great raita replacement.
- Wraps and sandwiches – Stuff it into pita or parathas for a refreshing crunch.
Storage Tips
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you must store it, keep it in the fridge and consume within 24 hours. The cucumbers will release water over time, but you can give it a quick stir before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Always taste the yogurt before using. If it’s too sour, balance it with a pinch of sugar.
- Don’t skip the spices—it’s the soul of the dish.
- Want more flavor? Let the cucumbers marinate in the spiced yogurt for 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular Curd instead of Greek Yogurt?
Yes, but make sure to strain it through a muslin cloth or fine sieve for 30 minutes to avoid a watery salad.
2. How do I stop the Cucumbers from making the salad watery?
After slicing, lightly salt the Cucumber Ribbons and let them sit for 5–10 minutes. Pat dry before adding to the yogurt.
3. Is this Salad spicy?
Not overly. You can control the spice level based on how much chili powder you use.
4. Can I prep this for a dinner party?
Yes! Make the Yogurt dressing and slice the Cucumbers in advance. Combine them just before serving.