Best 2 Cool Cucumber Raita Recipes

**Cool Cucumber Raita: A Refreshing Side Dish for Your Next Meal**

Raita is a yogurt-based condiment that is commonly served in Indian cuisine. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, but cucumber is a classic choice. Cucumber raita is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as an accompaniment to spicy dishes. This article provides three different recipes for cucumber raita, each with its own unique twist. The first recipe is a classic cucumber raita made with yogurt, cucumber, cilantro, and cumin. The second recipe adds a bit of spice with the addition of green chilies and serrano peppers. The third recipe is a vegan cucumber raita made with coconut yogurt, cucumber, mint, and lemon. All three recipes are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Whether you are looking for a classic cucumber raita or something with a bit more of a kick, this article has the perfect recipe for you.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

COOL CUCUMBER RAITA

Cool Cucumber Raita image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Categories condiment

Time 40m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

2 pints thick yogurt (recommended: Greek yogurt)
1/2 bunch cilantro leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin seed
1 lemon, juiced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cucumbers, peeled, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Steps:

Put the yogurt, cilantro, cumin, lemon juice, and salt and pepper, to taste, into a blender and puree until the mixture is smooth and green. Pour it into a bowl and fold in the cucumber and mint. Refrigerate at least 1/2 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving and drizzle with a little olive oil.

COOL CUCUMBER RAITA

Cool Cucumber Raita image

Provided by Maria Helm Sinskey

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 5

Ingredients

2 cups plain whole-milk yogurt
1 7-inch-long piece English hothouse cucumber, peeled, coarsely grated
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
2 tablespoons (packed) finely chopped fresh cilantro
4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh mint

Steps:

Line strainer with cheesecloth and place over bowl. Add yogurt; cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours and up to 1 day.
Combine drained yogurt and grated cucumber in small bowl. Add coarse salt, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint; mix well. Cover cucumber raita and chill at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours.

Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh, crisp cucumbers. You can peel them if you prefer, but it's not necessary.
If you don't have yogurt, you can use sour cream or buttermilk instead.
To make the raita even more refreshing, add a handful of chopped mint or cilantro.
If you like a little spice, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Serve the raita chilled, as a side dish or condiment with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.

Conclusion:

Cucumber raita is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that's perfect for summer gatherings. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a light and healthy dish to serve, give cucumber raita a try.