As the sun begins to warm the garden each spring, my thoughts drift to refreshing, vibrant dishes that make the most of seasonal produce. One such delight that never fails to captivate my taste buds is Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip, or Mast-o Khiar. The cool crunch of Persian cucumbers perfectly complemented by a creamy, tangy yogurt base creates a symphony of flavors that is as addictive as it is simple.
On one particularly warm day, a friend brought over a small bowl of this dip, and the moment I tasted it, I was hooked. The combination of walnuts and raisins adds a delightful texture, while fresh herbs elevate each bite. Whether served as a snack with pita chips or as a refreshing side with grilled meats, it brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table.
Join me in crafting this vibrant dip that takes just 13 minutes to whip up but promises to impress everyone at your next gathering. You’ll find it’s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue, showcasing the ability of homemade dishes to nurture not just your body, but your soul. Let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe!
Why is Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip so special?
Quick and Easy: In just 13 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant dip that wow your taste buds!
Creamy Delight: Greek yogurt forms a luscious base that’s both tangy and satisfying.
Nutty Crunch: Chopped walnuts bring the perfect crunch, complementing the refreshing cucumbers beautifully.
Versatile Serve: This dip shines at parties, alongside grilled meats, or simply with pita chips.
Herb-Infused: Fresh dill and mint elevate the flavor, offering a taste of the Mediterranean.
Say goodbye to fast food monotony and hello to deliciousness with this incredible dip!
Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip Ingredients
• Ready to whip up this delightful Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip?
For the Dip
- 3 Persian cucumbers – These cucumbers are crisp and less bitter, perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Kosher or sea salt – A pinch enhances the flavors while drawing out moisture from the cucumbers.
- 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt – The creamy base gives this dip its tangy richness.
- ½ cup Walnuts – Roughly chopped for a delightful crunch that complements the smooth yogurt.
- ¼ cup Raisins – Soaked to soften them, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons Fresh dill – Finely chopped to provide a fresh herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon Dried mint – For an aromatic lift that perfectly complements the yogurt.
- 1-2 Garlic cloves – Finely minced to add a savory depth to the dip.
- Fresh cracked black pepper – A sprinkle adds a peppery kick to your creamy blend.
For Garnish
- Chopped walnuts – Sprinkle on top for added texture and appeal.
- Raisins – A few extra for a pop of sweetness in every bite.
- Fresh dill fronds – For a beautiful finishing touch that highlights the fresh flavors.
- Dried mint – A hint of this serves as an elegant garnish.
- Rose petals – Optional, but they make a lovely, aromatic addition perfect for impressing guests.
- Olive oil – Drizzle over the top to enhance richness and shine.
Get excited; your homemade Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip will not only bring pleasure to your palate but also showcase the beauty of wholesome ingredients. Enjoy crafting this delectable treat!
How to Make Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip
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Dice cucumbers: Finely chop the 3 Persian cucumbers and place them in a mixing bowl. Lightly sprinkle with kosher or sea salt, then stir well. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their water.
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Combine ingredients: After 15 minutes, spoon away the excess liquid or gently soak it up with a paper towel. To the cucumbers, add 1 ½ cups of Greek yogurt, ½ cup of roughly chopped walnuts, ¼ cup of soaked raisins, 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill, 1 teaspoon of dried mint, and 1-2 finely minced garlic cloves. Season with a pinch of salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
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Taste and adjust: Give your dip a taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate—this is where you make it truly yours!
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Garnish generously: Spoon the velvety dip into a serving dish, topping it with additional chopped walnuts, raisins, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and a touch of dried mint. Don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch of elegance!
Optional: Add rose petals on top for an aromatic and beautiful garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip
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Fridge: Store the dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out.
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Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip for up to 1 month. Pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw it in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: If the dip separates after thawing, simply stir it well before serving. No need for cooking; it’s meant to be served cold.
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Serving Tip: Always garnish with fresh dill, walnuts, and a drizzle of olive oil right before serving for an inviting presentation!
What to Serve with Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip?
Elevate your meal experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement this refreshing dip.
- Pita Chips: The crisp, warm texture of pita chips makes for a perfect vehicle to scoop up the creamy dip.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a savory contrast, enhancing the fresh flavors of the dip.
- Crispy Vegetable Crudités: A colorful medley of fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers provide a crunchy contrast and keep things light.
- Tabbouleh Salad: The herby, citrusy notes of tabbouleh harmonize beautifully with the yogurt dip, creating a vibrant Mediterranean feast.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites deliver a wonderful texture and pair well, enriching the experience with every bite.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A chilled, bubbly drink with a hint of citrus makes a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dip, keeping your palate bright.
- Olive Tapenade: The briny, bold flavors of olive tapenade add another layer of depth that enhances the dip’s herbal notes.
- Baklava: For a sweet finish, the honeyed, flaky goodness of baklava offers a delightful contrast to the savory dip, creating the perfect ending to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can dice the cucumbers and lightly salt them up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and prevent browning. Moreover, you can mix the yogurt, walnuts, raisins, dill, mint, and garlic together and store this blend for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped cucumbers with the yogurt mixture, adjusting seasoning as needed, and finish with your garnishes. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade dip that’s just as flavorful and fresh with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip
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Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Select firm Persian cucumbers for optimal crunch and flavor; avoid limp or overly large ones to prevent bitterness.
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Don’t Skip Salting: Lightly salting the cucumbers is essential as it draws out excess liquid, enhancing the dip’s texture and flavor.
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Taste As You Go: Experiment with seasoning; the joy of this Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip lies in finding your perfect balance of herbs and spices.
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Chop Ingredients Evenly: Finely chopping cucumbers, garlic, and herbs ensures a harmonious blend and an appealing presentation.
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Garnish Creatively: Use garnishes like walnuts, raisins, and rose petals to elevate the visual appeal and introduce additional flavors in each bite.
Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip Variations
Feel free to play around with these delightful twists that can enhance your Mast-o Khiar experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free option that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a safe crunch that maintains texture without the allergens.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a warm, spicy element that heightens the flavor contrast.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of a lemon or lime for a bright, citrusy note that elevates the fresh cucumber and herbs.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh mint leaves in place of dried mint, or add a handful of chopped parsley to enrich the dip with vibrant herbiness.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in some finely chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for added freshness and a pop of color that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Creamier Dip: Blend in a bit of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture that makes every bite indulgent while maintaining the original essence.
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Middle Eastern Flair: Introduce a spoonful of tahini for a nutty, rich depth that adds a unique twist to this traditional dip.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations as you make this delicious dip your own!
Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip Recipe FAQs
What distinguishes Persian cucumbers from regular cucumbers?
Persian cucumbers are smaller, with a thinner skin and fewer seeds, which makes them less bitter and crisper than regular cucumbers. Their delightful crunch is perfect for this dip, ensuring you get the freshest flavor and texture.
How long can I store Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip in the fridge?
You can keep your Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness, ensure the lid is secure, and avoid double-dipping to prevent introducing bacteria into the dip.
Can I freeze Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip?
Absolutely! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your dip for up to 1 month. To do this, spoon it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and remember to stir it well before serving!
What should I do if the dip becomes watery?
If you notice your dip is a bit watery after sitting, it might be due to the moisture from the cucumbers. Don’t worry—simply give it a good stir to combine the ingredients again. If it’s still too watery for your taste, you can drain off some excess liquid that may have separated.
Can I customize the herbs for this dip?
Definitely! While fresh dill and dried mint are traditional, you can switch things up with herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives if they suit your taste better. Feel free to experiment—this dip is all about what you love!
Is this dip safe for people with nut allergies?
For those with nut allergies, I recommend omitting the walnuts entirely or substituting them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. Always check with guests regarding their dietary restrictions before serving.
Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A Refreshing Taste Adventure!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop the 3 Persian cucumbers and place them in a mixing bowl. Lightly sprinkle with kosher or sea salt, then stir well. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their water.
- After 15 minutes, spoon away the excess liquid or gently soak it up with a paper towel. To the cucumbers, add 1.5 cups of Greek yogurt, 0.5 cups of roughly chopped walnuts, 0.25 cups of soaked raisins, 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill, 1 teaspoon of dried mint, and 1-2 finely minced garlic cloves. Season with a pinch of salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
- Give your dip a taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
- Spoon the velvety dip into a serving dish, topping it with additional chopped walnuts, raisins, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and a touch of dried mint. Drizzle with olive oil for elegance!
- Optional: Add rose petals on top for an aromatic and beautiful garnish.