Name: Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: Cucumber (1 large or 2 small, thinly sliced); Fresh Mint or Dill (1 small handful, chopped); Red Chili (½, finely chopped – optional); Lemon Zest (½ tsp); Olive Oil (1 tbsp); White Wine Vinegar or Lemon Juice (1 tbsp); Salt and Black Pepper (to taste); Optional: Greek yogurt (2 tbsp) for creamy version

This Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad is a crisp, refreshing dish that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for warmer days. With thinly sliced cucumber, fresh herbs, a zesty vinaigrette, and optional extras like chili or yogurt, it’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, curries, or picnic spreads. Simple yet full of vibrant flavor, this salad is ideal for quick lunches or elegant dinner tables.

What is Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad?

Jamie Oliver’s cucumber salad is a refreshing mix of thinly sliced cucumber, dressed with a tangy vinegar-based or creamy yogurt dressing, and often flavored with fresh herbs like mint or dill, chili, and lemon zest. It’s quick to prepare and adds a cool, crisp texture to any meal, particularly during the summer months.

Other Popular Salad Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 10 minutes
Crisp and Refreshing – Perfect warm-weather side
Few Ingredients, Big Flavor – Simple but impactful
Great with Grilled Foods – Pairs well with BBQ or curries
Low in Calories – Light and hydrating

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad

Cucumber (1 large or 2 small, thinly sliced)
Fresh Mint or Dill (1 small handful, chopped)
Red Chili (½, finely chopped – optional)
Lemon Zest (½ tsp)
Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
White Wine Vinegar or Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional: Greek yogurt (2 tbsp) for creamy version

Equipment Needed

Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
Mixing bowl
Small whisk or spoon
Serving plate or bowl

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber

Wash and thinly slice the cucumber using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place the slices in a mixing bowl and season lightly with salt to help draw out excess moisture.

Step 2: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar or lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped chili (if using), and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 3: Toss and combine

Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumber. Add the chopped herbs and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Optional creamy version

If making a creamy version, stir Greek yogurt into the dressing before tossing with the cucumber slices.

Step 5: Serve immediately or chill

Serve the salad right away, or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad

Grilled Chicken or Fish – Light, protein-rich mains
Indian Curries or Kebabs – Cools down spicy dishes
BBQ Meats – Adds freshness to rich flavors
Falafel Wraps or Pita Sandwiches – Adds crunch and moisture
Asian Noodle Bowls – Great texture contrast
Rice Dishes or Pilaf – Complements starchy sides

Expert Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

Use English or Persian Cucumbers – They’re sweeter and less watery
Salt the Cucumber Lightly – Helps prevent sogginess
Add Herbs Last – Keeps them bright and fresh
Let It Chill – Enhances the flavor
Slice Evenly – For consistent texture and taste

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Cucumber Salad

Add Sliced Red Onion – For a touch of sharpness
Include Tomatoes or Radishes – For color and variety
Use Apple Cider Vinegar – A different kind of tang
Add Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese – For richness
Sprinkle Toasted Sesame Seeds – For an Asian twist

Best Practices to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate in Airtight Container – Keeps fresh for up to 2 days
Drain Excess Liquid Before Storing – Cucumber releases water
Stir Before Reusing – Redistribute dressing evenly
Avoid Freezing – Texture will become mushy
Serve Chilled – Best enjoyed cold for crispness

Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~50
Carbohydrates: ~3g
Fat: ~4g
Protein: ~1g
Fiber: ~1g

FAQs

Can I make cucumber salad in advance?

Yes, but for best texture, prepare it no more than 2–3 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add herbs just before serving to keep them fresh.

How do I prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy?

Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain the excess water. This helps maintain a firmer texture.

Can I add yogurt to make it creamy?

Absolutely. Add 2–3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy version that pairs well with spicy dishes.

Which herbs are best in cucumber salad?

Mint and dill are traditional favorites. You can also use parsley, coriander, or chives based on your preference.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Cucumber Salad is the definition of simple done right. With fresh herbs, a bright dressing, and optional heat or creaminess, this dish proves that you don’t need many ingredients to make something truly delicious.