Name: Low Carb Cucumber Salad - Fresh u0026amp; Protein-Packed Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Ingredients: 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (for creamy dressing); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or low-carb sweetener; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt, more to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped; 2 boiled eggs, sliced (optional for added protein); ½ cup grilled chicken or tofu cubes (optional for meal-style salad)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Low Carb Cucumber Salad

Low carb cucumber salad is one of those recipes that perfectly blends freshness, flavor, and simplicity. It’s cool, crisp, and hydrating everything you want in a light meal or side dish. The natural crunch of fresh cucumbers combines beautifully with a creamy, tangy dressing that feels indulgent without being heavy. Every bite delivers a refreshing balance of acidity and creaminess, making it ideal for summer picnics, meal prep lunches, or quick dinners. Unlike many traditional salads, this one stays crisp for hours, even after chilling, which makes it a favorite among home cooks looking for convenience and taste in one bowl.

View All Salad Recipes

What makes this salad truly stand out is its ability to fit into various diets without losing its appeal. Whether you’re following a low carb, high protein, or dairy free plan, this salad adapts easily. It’s not only a healthy choice but also a versatile base you can build on with ingredients like grilled chicken, boiled eggs, or tofu to create a complete meal. Beyond its nutritional value, the clean, cooling flavor of cucumbers makes it a dish people love returning to again and again. It’s refreshing, visually appealing, and effortlessly satisfying a true staple for anyone who enjoys fresh, wholesome food made simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This low carb cucumber salad is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Every component plays a role crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the creamy dressing adds balance and depth. It’s light enough for hot summer days but satisfying enough to keep you full thanks to its protein-rich options. What makes it truly special is its flexibility; you can serve it as a side dish, a main course, or even a make-ahead meal prep option.

From a chef’s perspective, this salad is all about mastering contrast. The mild sweetness of cucumbers blends beautifully with the tangy, slightly sharp flavor of the dressing, creating a clean yet flavorful bite. It’s hydrating, low in calories, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. The balance of textures smooth dressing against crisp vegetables makes it more exciting than the average salad.

You’ll also love how customizable it is. Whether you add grilled chicken, boiled eggs, or tofu, it adapts easily to your dietary needs. It fits into nearly any meal plan, from keto and paleo to dairy-free and high-protein. It’s also a great recipe for meal prep since it stays fresh and crisp even after chilling. The dressing can be prepared ahead, saving you time without compromising taste.

Most importantly, this salad is practical. You don’t need fancy tools or rare ingredients just fresh produce, a mixing bowl, and a few pantry staples. It’s budget-friendly, quick to assemble, and looks elegant enough to serve to guests. For anyone who values healthy eating without sacrificing flavor or texture, this low carb cucumber salad delivers everything you could want in one refreshing, nourishing bowl.

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (for creamy dressing)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or low-carb sweetener
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt, more to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
2 boiled eggs, sliced (optional for added protein)
½ cup grilled chicken or tofu cubes (optional for meal-style salad)

Substitution Notes:

You can use sour cream or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Replace honey with erythritol or stevia for keto-friendly diets.
Add avocado for extra healthy fats or replace dill with mint for a brighter, refreshing twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandolin. For less water content, sprinkle salt over the slices and let them rest for 10 minutes, then gently squeeze out excess moisture with paper towels. This step helps the salad stay crisp instead of watery.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness as needed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add sliced cucumbers to the bowl of dressing and toss gently until every slice is evenly coated. Fold in chopped dill or parsley. If you’re making it a protein salad, add boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or tofu cubes at this stage. Mix carefully to avoid breaking the cucumber slices.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. The salad becomes even better as it chills, making it ideal for meal prep or summer picnics.

How to Serve

Serve the low carb cucumber salad in chilled white ceramic bowls for a modern presentation. It pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, baked chicken, or roasted vegetables. For a complete low-carb meal, serve it alongside protein-rich dishes like grilled shrimp skewers or a lean steak. You can also stuff it into lettuce wraps for a portable lunch. To elevate plating, garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Additional Tips

Always slice cucumbers evenly for consistent crunch.
Use English or Persian cucumbers for thinner skins and fewer seeds.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed chili flakes.
Make the dressing in advance and store separately to keep the cucumbers crisp.
For meal prep, combine all components just before eating.

Recipe Variations

Creamy Avocado Cucumber Salad: Mash half a ripe avocado into the dressing for a velvety, nutrient-rich texture. The avocado adds healthy fats that keep you full longer, making it ideal for lunch or a post-workout meal. It pairs perfectly with grilled salmon or roasted chicken and gives the salad a beautiful pale green color that looks fresh and modern.
Asian-Inspired Cucumber Protein Salad: Replace lemon juice with rice vinegar and olive oil with sesame oil. Add a few drops of soy sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and finely chopped scallions. Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make it a full meal. This version has a light, tangy flavor and works well for quick lunches or dinner sides with Asian-style main courses.
Spicy Cucumber Salad Yogurt Bowl: Add a small diced jalapeño or a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing. Mix in chopped mint and a little extra lemon juice for brightness. The spice and herbs make this salad stand out next to grilled meats, kebabs, or barbecued dishes. It’s a flavorful variation that balances heat with cooling yogurt.
High Protein Cucumber Salad: Turn your low carb cucumber salad into a high protein bowl by adding grilled chicken breast, canned tuna, boiled eggs, or cubed tofu. It’s an excellent option for people following a high protein, low carb diet. You can even add a scoop of unflavored protein powder into the dressing for an extra boost without altering the taste.
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad: Mix cucumbers with chopped cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and feta cheese. Use olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano for the dressing. This variation captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while keeping it fresh and light.
Cucumber and Herb Cottage Cheese Salad: For extra creaminess, combine cucumbers with cottage cheese, chopped dill, and chives. The cottage cheese increases the protein content and blends beautifully with the fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a light but satisfying dinner.
Cucumber Protein Power Bowl: Add sliced cucumbers to a base of spinach or kale, top with boiled eggs, quinoa, and chickpeas, then drizzle with the same creamy dressing. This makes it a complete protein-rich meal that stays within low carb limits while offering balanced nutrition and flavor variety.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not freeze cucumber salad; freezing changes the texture and makes it soggy.
Keep the dressing and cucumbers separate if you plan to prepare it in advance for meal prep.
If the salad releases water after chilling, simply drain excess liquid and refresh with a spoonful of dressing.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 120
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 260mg

Final Words

Low carb cucumber salad is the perfect example of how simplicity can deliver both taste and nutrition. Every bite is crisp, cooling, and satisfying without the heaviness of traditional creamy salads. It’s one of those dishes that feel refreshing and light yet keeps you full thanks to the protein and fiber. This salad shows that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated just a few fresh ingredients, the right balance of flavors, and proper technique can create something truly enjoyable.

The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability. You can serve it as a side with grilled meats, enjoy it as a light standalone meal, or pack it for lunch when you need something quick and energizing. It fits easily into almost any dietary plan, from low carb and keto to dairy free and high protein. Whether you’re looking for a fresh summer recipe or a reliable year-round option, this salad delivers on all fronts.

Preparing this at home not only ensures freshness but also lets you control what goes into your meal. You can experiment with herbs, dressings, and proteins to make it your own. Once you’ve made it a few times, you’ll realize it’s more than just a salad it’s a foundation for healthy eating that’s easy, flexible, and delicious every single time.

FAQ’s

Yes, you can use coconut yogurt or vegan mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt to keep it completely dairy-free.

It stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Absolutely. You can include sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for more color and texture.

Yes, just replace honey with a keto-friendly sweetener, and it becomes perfect for low-carb and keto meal plans.

Yes, keep the dressing separate and mix it just before eating to maintain the crunch.