Crunchy Cucumber Yogurt Raita

Name: Crunchy Cucumber Yogurt Raita
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium cucumbers, grated; 2 cups plain yogurt; 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder; 1/2 teaspoon black salt; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh coriander, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Pinch of red chili powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking | Raw & Green

I absolutely love making Crunchy Cucumber Yogurt Raita during the hot summer months. This refreshing dish not only complements spicy Indian meals but also acts as a cooling side that's perfect for any occasion. With its creamy yogurt base and vibrant crunch of cucumbers, every bite is a delightful experience. I've found that using fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime elevate the flavors even more, making it a beloved staple on my table. Whether it's a picnic or a simple dinner at home, this raita is sure to impress!

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-12T18:34:18.542Z

When I first tried making Crunchy Cucumber Yogurt Raita, I was surprised at how easy and quick it was. I tossed together fresh cucumbers, creamy yogurt, and a handful of spices, and the results were fantastic! It's incredible how such simple ingredients can create a refreshing dish that perfectly balances heat from spicy curries.

One tip I've learned is to let the raita chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious taste that’s refreshing and satisfying. Every time I serve this raita, it disappears in minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing and cooling for hot days
Perfect balance of creaminess and crunch
Easily customizable with fresh herbs

      

Mastering the Technique

Grating the cucumbers is a crucial step for achieving the right texture in your raita. Use the medium side of a box grater for optimal results. This creates fine strands that blend beautifully into the yogurt without becoming too watery. Once grated, aim to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible—this not only improves the final texture but also prevents the raita from becoming soupy when chilled.

Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is essential for a well-balanced flavor. When adding the spices, like cumin and black salt, make sure they are evenly dispersed throughout the yogurt. Use a whisk or a fork for this purpose, allowing the yogurt to become creamy and fluffy. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor, and you won't end up with clumps of spices or cucumbers.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh herbs such as mint and coriander not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing aroma to the raita. Be sure to chop them finely before incorporation; this maximizes their surface area and allows their oils to blend seamlessly with the yogurt. If you're not a fan of these herbs, consider alternatives like basil or parsley, which can offer a different yet delightful profile.

The choice of yogurt is equally important for achieving the right consistency. I recommend using full-fat plain yogurt for a rich and creamy texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, low-fat yogurt can be used, but note that it might result in a thinner raita. Greek yogurt is an excellent choice as well, providing a thicker body and a tangy flavor that complements the cucumbers beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start making your raita:

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, grated
2 cups plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon black salt
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh coriander, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
Pinch of red chili powder (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're just minutes away from enjoying a delicious raita!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your raita:

Prepare the Cucumbers

Grate the cucumbers and lightly squeeze out excess water to prevent your raita from becoming too watery.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the grated cucumbers, yogurt, cumin powder, black salt, chopped mint, coriander, and lime juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the raita and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add chili powder for an extra kick if you like.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the raita for at least 30 minutes. Serve chilled as a side dish with your favorite Indian meals.

Enjoy the raita as a refreshing side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some diced tomatoes or a pinch of chaat masala to your raita.

Make-Ahead Tips

Crunchy Cucumber Yogurt Raita is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for busy days. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and crispness. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving, as the liquids might settle at the bottom.

If you plan to enjoy this raita over a few days, consider storing the grated cucumbers separately. This will keep them crunchy and prevent them from releasing too much water into the yogurt. When ready to serve, simply combine them back together for that perfect texture in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

This raita pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian dishes. It’s especially delightful alongside spicy curries or biryanis, as the cooling effect of the yogurt balances out the heat. I also love serving it with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a refreshing side. You can even use it as a dip for naan or vegetable platters.

For a twist, consider incorporating additional ingredients like diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition and vibrant color. Another idea is to sprinkle some roasted cumin seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and a crunchy texture, making your raita not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make raita ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

→ What can I serve with raita?

Raita pairs well with spicy curries, biryani, or even as a dip with pita bread.

→ How long can I store leftover raita?

You can store leftover raita in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use any other vegetables in raita?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers for variation.