Crisp & Cool Cucumber Mint Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
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There’s something about cold, crisp cucumbers on a hot summer day that just hits different. It’s that refreshing, straight-from-the-garden crunch that feels like a deep breath of fresh air when the heat is relentless.
This Cucumber Mint Salad is a little Southern, a little garden-fresh, and a whole lot of cool and creamy. Instead of the usual vinegar-based cucumber salad, we’re going the buttermilk dressing route—tangy, lightly sweetened, and speckled with fresh herbs. Add in thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick and fresh mint to keep things extra refreshing.
If you’ve never had a buttermilk dressing, think of it like ranch’s more elegant, garden-loving cousin—lighter, smoother, and with a brightness that complements fresh veggies instead of overpowering them. Bonus? It’s crazy simple to make and gets even better as it sits.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
For the Buttermilk Dressing:
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for a richer taste)
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Prep the Veggies
- Thinly slice the cucumbers and radishes using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Chop the fresh mint and dill—don’t skimp, herbs bring the magic!
Whisk Up the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add a little more salt or honey if needed.
Toss & Chill
- Combine cucumbers, radishes, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving (this helps the flavors meld).
Serve & Enjoy
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra mint and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Best served chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead side dish for summer cookouts!
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve with: Grilled chicken, salmon, or BBQ for a refreshing contrast. Make it a meal: Add crumbled feta and chickpeas for a protein-packed salad. Leftovers? Enjoy within 24 hours for the best texture.
Final Thoughts: A Summer Staple Worth Keeping on Repeat
This cucumber mint salad is one of those dishes that gets made on repeat in my kitchen. It’s easy, flexible, and somehow manages to steal the spotlight every time.
I love that it’s cool and crisp with just the right amount of creaminess—not heavy, not overwhelming, just fresh and bright. And if you’ve got a garden full of cucumbers and herbs, this is the best way to use them up without getting tired of the same old thing.
It also travels well, making it a solid choice for picnics, potlucks, and cookouts. Trust me—make it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it again every time the heat cranks up!
