Basics
Garlic Cucumber Yoghurt Dip with Dill
This is one of those little things I make without thinking, and it quietly lifts the whole plate. Natural yoghurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, garlic, a splash of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil — cool, creamy and fresh. The one thing worth doing properly is squeezing the excess water out of the grated cucumber before it goes into the yoghurt, because that is what keeps the dip thick and creamy rather than watery. Lovely with air fryer meals, salads and grilled meats, or simply as a dip.
- Prep
- 10 mins
- Cook
- No cooking required
- Difficulty
- Very easy
Ingredients
- 100g natural yoghurt
- 1/2 cucumber
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1/4 bunch fresh dill, finely chopped
- Splash of fresh lemon juice
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Method
- 01
Grate the cucumber: grate half a cucumber.
- 02
Remove the excess water: place the grated cucumber into a clean cheesecloth, gather it around the cucumber and squeeze thoroughly to remove as much excess water as possible. This step is important for preventing the dip from becoming watery.
- 03
Prepare the yoghurt: add 100g natural yoghurt to a bowl.
- 04
Add the cucumber and garlic: add the drained grated cucumber and 2 crushed garlic cloves to the yoghurt.
- 05
Add the dill: add 1/4 bunch finely chopped fresh dill.
- 06
Season and dress: add a pinch of salt, a splash of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil.
- 07
Combine: mix everything together until evenly combined and creamy. Taste and adjust only the salt or lemon juice according to personal preference if desired, then serve fresh.
A little from me
Lackie's Notes
Don't skip squeezing the grated cucumber. Removing the excess water helps keep the dip thick and creamy.
Finely chop the fresh dill so it distributes evenly throughout the yoghurt.
Start with a small splash of lemon juice and adjust according to taste.
Garlic intensity varies, so use less if you prefer a milder dip.
Optional variations
Make It Your Own
- Adjust the garlic according to taste.
- Add slightly more or less dill.
- Adjust the lemon juice depending on how tangy you like it.
- Loosen or thicken the consistency with a little more yoghurt if preferred.
Serve it with
Serving Suggestion
The dip in these photographs was served alongside my Smoked Salmon, Egg & Cheese Air Fryer Breakfast Bake and an Easy Greek Style Salad with Feta. It also works beautifully with air fryer chicken, lamb, grilled meats, roasted vegetables and wraps.
