Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
Having kid-friendly sauces as a part of family meals can be an easy way to sprinkle in flavor that everyone can add (or not add!) to their liking. I’m always looking for versatile options that work with a variety of foods, and this cucumber sauce is a go-to. This cucumber dip is delicious with sliced cucumbers and snap peas for a simple pre-dinner snack. Or with cherry tomatoes and pita. We also love it drizzled over grain bowls—particularly with lamb meatballs. It’s also so good with Mediterranean foods like falafel.
Ingredients You Need
To make this recipe you’ll need to have the following ingredients on hand or to plan to pick them up from the store. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Plain whole-milk yogurt: The base of this dip is yogurt, so I like to use the plain whole-milk variety for creaminess. You can also use plain Greek yogurt if you prefer, though the sauce will be a little thicker. Fresh lemon: Grated lemon zest and juice ensures the sauce has a nicely balanced flavor and is bright and fresh. Cucumber: Finely diced cucumber (or you can grate it) adds flavor and texture to the yogurt sauce. I usually use English or hot house cucumbers, which have fewer and smaller seeds and thinner skin. You can use a regular variety and peel the skin if it is very thick. Salt: A touch of salt helps balance the flavors in the sauce. If sharing this with a baby, you can salt the mixture after you remove some for their serving. Garlic (optional): Adding minced garlic boosts the flavor in a really delicious way.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a look at how to make this easy yogurt recipe so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the end of the post for the full information, including amounts and timing.
Serving Suggestions
Similar to tzatziki sauce, this sauce is delicious with grain bowls, particularly with roasted veggies and Lamb Meatballs; falafel; lamb burgers; Chicken Meatballs; chopped romaine lettuce; sliced veggies like cucumbers, snap peas, cherry tomatoes; pita bread; and chicken.
How to Store
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Best Tips for Success
I prefer to use English or hot house cucumbers, as the seeds are smaller and the skin is thinner. I leave the skin on if using this variety. If using a traditional cucumber or one with thicker skin, you can peel it. Add the garlic for more flavor or leave it out to make a milder sauce. Add some freshly grated lemon zest for additional lemony flavor. Try with Lamb Meatballs, Chicken Meatballs, Tofu Nuggets, or as a dip with pita chips and veggies.
I’d love to hear your feedback on this post, so please comment below to share.
4-Ingredient Baked Chicken Meatballs
Moroccan Lamb Meatballs
Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets
Master List of Healthy Sauces and Dips
This post was first published January 2020.
