This dukkah-spiced Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is the perfect refreshing side dish to any summertime main meal.
This Mediterranean-inspired salad reflects the flavors commonly found in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine, but in a humble cucumber side dish.
And as you may have seen trending on TikTok, we’re now supposed to be eating a whole cucumber a day, right?
Mediterranean cuisines are often characterized by their use of fresh vegetables, herbs, and healthy fats, particularly olive oil. Mediterranean-inspired salads often feature vibrant colors and a bold, refreshing taste that contrasts with other stewed dishes or grilled proteins.
This salad is inspired by the Turkish dish cacık, which combines creamy yogurt with the crunch of chopped cucumbers and herbs to make a refreshing dip or side dish. In this recipe, I wanted to omit the yogurt to make it fully vegan-friendly, but you can add it back in if you prefer!
The use of dukkah also hints at Middle Eastern influences, which often incorporate nuts and spices to enhance the flavor profile of salads and main dishes alike.
Is this Mediterranean Cucumber Salad healthy?
This recipe is most definitely healthy! The cucumbers are low in calories and provide hydration due to their high water content, and the red onion is low in calories while also containing antioxidants.
Dukkah is a blend of nuts, seeds, and spices, providing healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
While healthy in moderation, olive oil is calorie-dense and high in fat. To make this recipe healthier, you can trade one tablespoon of the olive oil for Greek yogurt for a creamier, lower-calorie dressing.
You can also add other veggies to increase fiber, vitamins, and variety. In the Lebanese salad fattoush, mixed greens, tomatoes, radishes, and toasted or fried pieces of pita bread are combined with cucumbers and seasoned with sumac for a tangy flavor.
What is a Mezze platter?
Mezze, also spelled meze, refers to a variety of small dishes served across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. This style of dining is similar to Spanish tapas, and diners create a full meal from the assortment of flavors and textures available.
Mezze is not just about the food; it embodies a social dining experience. It encourages sharing and grazing rather than formal courses, and this communal aspect makes it ideal for gatherings, as guests can sample various dishes at their leisure.
At its core, a mezze platter will include dishes like dips and spreads (hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki, etc.), breads like pita or lavash, vegetables (both fresh and pickled), cheeses (feta and other soft cheeses are popular), proteins (falafel, meatballs, or grilled meats), and sometimes dried fruits like figs or apricots to add sweetness.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that “Mediterranean food” covers a diverse variety of cultures and cuisines. While the concept of mezze is widespread, its specific dishes can vary significantly by region. For example, Greek mezze often includes dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), Turkish mezze can feature dishes like börek (savory pastries), and Lebanese mezze usually involves tabbouleh (an herb salad) and kibbeh (a bulgur wheat and meat dish).
How To Make Ahead And Store
Usually, when I make this delicious cucumber salad, the plate will be clean in under 10 minutes! But, if you happen to have leftovers, they keep very well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container, and it will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Make your own mezze platter at home for a healthy and balanced meal! For the protein, I love to make some Kofta Kebabs, Salmon Kabobs, and Air-Fryer Falafel.
For the carbs, you can never go wrong with warm pita bread alongside this Mediterranean Couscous Salad, this Cauliflower Tabbouleh, or this Bulgur Salad. For dipping, try out this Mutabal or this Melitzanosalata, and I also love this Avocado Hummus!
As well as lots of fresh, raw veggies like bell peppers and cucumber, don’t miss out on some kalamata olives and these Pickled Turnips.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cucumber thinly sliced
- 1/4 to 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint minced
- 2 teaspoons dukkah
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Place the lemon juice in a medium bowl. While constantly whisking, stream in the oil until thick and well mixed.
- Add in all the remaining ingredients and toss to coat well.
- OPTIONAL BUT RECOMMENDED: cover and chill for 1 hour to develop flavors, then enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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