This Cucumber Salad is a delightful fusion of creamy labneh, crunchy cucumbers, earthy za’atar, and fresh mint. Perfect for a light side dish, snack, or appetizer, this salad brings together bright flavors with a Middle Eastern twist. Each bite is refreshing, tangy, and creamy, making it a fantastic complement to any meal.
Cucumber Salad with Labneh, Za’atar, and Mint
I love how easy and fresh this salad is to make! The combination of creamy labneh with the herbaceous za’atar and cooling cucumber makes this salad light yet flavorful. Adding fresh mint elevates the taste even further. This salad is beautiful on a platter for a party or as a quick side to enjoy with warm pita. It’s a go-to when I want something simple yet full of flavor!
Serve with Grilled Vegetable Kabobs Recipe for a light meal or pair with Homemade Falafel Recipe for a satisfying Mediterranean spread.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad with Labneh, Za’atar, and Mint Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes just minutes to assemble with no cooking involved.
- Vibrant and Fresh: The cucumbers, za’atar, and mint keep things light and refreshing.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Looks beautiful on a platter and pairs well with many dishes.
- Healthy and Nutritious: High in hydration, vitamins, and probiotics.
Main Ingredients for Cucumber Salad with Labneh, Za’atar, and Mint
- Cucumbers – Adds a fresh crunch and keeps the salad light.
- Labneh – Thick, creamy, and slightly tangy, this is the perfect base for the salad.
- Za’atar – Adds a savory, herbaceous flavor with a hint of nuttiness.
- Fresh Mint – Brings a burst of freshness and complements the other flavors.
- Olive Oil – Enhances the flavors and adds a smooth, rich finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cucumber Salad with Labneh, Za’atar, and Mint Recipe
Here’s how to make this quick and refreshing cucumber salad:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice 2 large cucumbers and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Tip: For an extra crunch, use Persian or English cucumbers.
- Spread the Labneh: On a serving platter, spread 1 cup of labneh into an even layer, creating a base for the cucumbers.
- Alternative: Substitute labneh with Greek yogurt if unavailable, though it may be slightly thinner.
- Toss the Cucumbers with Oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the cucumber slices and sprinkle them with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Toss gently to coat.
- Pro Tip: For added brightness, mix in a teaspoon of lemon juice with the cucumbers.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the seasoned cucumber slices on top of the labneh, covering it evenly.
- Serving Idea: Layer in a circular pattern for a beautiful presentation.
- Add Za’atar and Mint: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of za’atar and 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (torn or chopped) over the cucumbers and labneh.
- Pro Tip: If you love za’atar, mix a bit into the labneh itself before assembling.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Finish the salad with an additional drizzle of olive oil over the top.
- Optional Garnish: Serve with lemon wedges or extra za’atar on the side.
- Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for a short time if needed.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Other Herbs: Add parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- Top with Pita Chips: Sprinkle with crushed pita chips or toasted nuts for crunch.
- How to Store: Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad with Labneh, Za’atar, and Mint
Cucumbers are hydrating and refreshing, perfect for summer, and labneh provides a creamy base with probiotics. Mint is known for its digestive benefits, and za’atar brings in antioxidants, making this salad not only delicious but nutritious!
- Rich in Probiotics and Fiber: The labneh supports gut health.
- Low-Calorie: This salad is light and perfect for a fresh, healthy snack.
- Hydrating: Cucumbers are mostly water, which helps keep you hydrated
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