Mediterranean Diet Traditional Cucumber Raita
Cool, creamy, and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, this Traditional Cucumber Raita is a quick and healthy side dish that complements any meal. Made with crisp grated cucumber, velvety Greek yogurt, and fragrant herbs like mint and cilantro, this recipe also boasts a touch of earthy cumin and a zesty squeeze of lemon juice for a perfectly balanced dish. Ready in just 10 minutes, this raita is an excellent choice for those following the Mediterranean diet and looking for a refreshing accompaniment to grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or flatbreads. Whether served chilled or enjoyed immediately, it’s a versatile and nutrient-rich addition to your table. Add an optional drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant finish and savor the delicate harmony of flavors!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 medium Cucumber
- 1.5 cups Plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon Sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cool running water. If desired, peel the skin for a softer texture, or leave it on for added crunch and nutrients.
Grate the cucumber using a box grater and transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out any excess water to prevent the raita from becoming too runny, then set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the plain Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
Add the grated cucumber to the yogurt, then stir in the fresh mint, cilantro, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Transfer the cucumber raita to a serving dish. If desired, drizzle with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil for garnish.
Serve immediately, or chill the raita in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy as a side dish, dip, or salad accompaniment. It pairs particularly well with grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or flatbreads.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
325 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.2 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 1290 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20.4 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.9 g | ||
| Protein | 23.8 g | 48% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 442 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 897 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
