Cucumbers are often used to make refreshing, tasty dips that are perfect for serving at parties or as an appetizer. The cool, crisp flavor of cucumbers pairs well with a variety of ingredients to create dips that are nutritious and full of flavor.
Tzatziki
One of the most popular cucumber dips is tzatziki. This Greek yogurt-based dip features grated cucumber as a main ingredient. To make tzatziki, you will need:
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and grated
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. Tzatziki can be served as a dip with pita bread or fresh vegetables. It also makes a delicious condiment for gyros, kebabs, and more.
Cucumber Yogurt Dip
For an even simpler yogurt and cucumber dip, you can make a quick cucumber yogurt dip. Simply mix together:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stir to combine and refrigerate until chilled before serving with fresh vegetables or pita chips.
Cucumber Ranch Dip
Ranch dressing is a popular dip on its own, but mixing in cucumber makes it even more refreshing. To make cucumber ranch dip, combine:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Dash of black pepper
Mix all ingredients together until thoroughly combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving with chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Creamy Cucumber Dip
For a dairy-free cucumber dip, try this creamy cucumber dip made with avocado:
- 2 avocados, mashed
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mash the avocados in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips.
Cold Cucumber Soup
Chilled cucumber soup makes for a refreshing appetizer or light meal on a hot day. To make cold cucumber soup:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Dash of pepper
Puree the cucumbers, yogurt, buttermilk, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil and seasonings in a blender or food processor until smooth. Refrigerate until well chilled before serving, at least 2 hours. Garnish bowls of soup with extra chopped dill.
Conclusion
Cucumbers are the perfect ingredient for making refreshing cold dips and appetizers. From the classic Greek tzatziki sauce to creamy ranch dip and refreshing cold soups, there are endless ways to use cucumbers in delicious dip recipes. Whip up one of these tasty cucumber dips the next time you need an appetizer for a party or a bright, healthy snack for your family.