Whole Cucumber Salad, My Way!
Some would say that I’m late to the “whole cucumber salad” game. However, I like to think that I’m just fashionably late to the party… so, on time.
I’m not using cream cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt, in my cucumber salad. Oh no, I’m using an ingredient that I feel doesn’t get enough love online… Labneh. (I’m not sponsored in any way, I just really love the stuff 😍)
Labneh is often overlooked in the dairy world, yet it is a delicious and versatile spread. This luscious, tangy treat is made by straining yogurt until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. It is somewhere between Greek yogurt and cream cheese. Labneh has a bright, savory flavor that enhances a variety of dishes.
You can enjoy it swirled with olive oil and za’atar for a delightful dip. Try tucking it into a pita with fresh vegetables. Alternatively, dollop it onto roasted meats and grain bowls. Labneh adds a rich depth of flavor and offers a probiotic boost that’s beneficial for gut health.
It’s easy to make at home, endlessly customizable, and once you’ve tasted it, it’s hard to imagine your fridge without it.
Look for it in your grocery store and if they sell it, I highly recommend you get yourself a container.
Let’s revisit this cucumber salad. When it comes to spices, feel free to stray from my suggestions. Use spices that suit your taste. Combinations like za’atar, garlic, and lemon sound delicious, or you might want to try chili crisp if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t hesitate to experiment! If you don’t like what you’ve created, try again. There are countless spices to choose from, including pre-mixed options like Garam Masala, Tex-Mex, or even BBQ spice rub mixes that can add an exciting twist.
I hope you enjoy this salad as much as I enjoyed eating it! 😊
🥒Whole Cucumber Salad🥒
- 1 Whole English Cucumber (sliced thin with a knife or mandoline)
- Labneh, 1/3 cup
- Salt, to taste
- Spices of Your Choice, to taste
- Pickle juice, or lemon juice (just enough to thin sauce)
Directions
- Using a knife or mandoline, slice whole cucumber into thin slices, between 1/4 and 1/8 inches thick, into a large bowl or container with a lid. (I used a plastic cucumber container with a screw lid. Was the perfect size)
- In another, smaller bowl, add Labneh, salt, and spices of choice together till combined. (I used raw garlic powder, parsley, a smidgen of cumin, and smoked paprika). Add pickle or lemon juice to sauce to thin.
- Once sauce is combined, add to cucumbers.
- If using a container with a lid, close container and shake till sauce has coated all cucumbers. If using a bowl, combine cucumbers and sauce, using either spoon or spatula, until ingredients are combined.
- Enjoy!
References
If you want to learn more about Labneh, use the links below.
https://draxe.com/nutrition/labneh/
https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/product/labne-yogurt%20spread,%2016%20oz-b08874z7qg
The Messy Manifesto 
Leave a comment