Salated Zabadi Bel Khiar means yogurt-cucumber salad. It is a refreshing and cooling mint-scented yogurt cucumber salad that is a quintessential appetizer, as well as a side dish, that perfectly pairs with a number of spicy and hearty Egyptian dishes, such as rolled grape leaves and spicy lamb. 

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What Is Salatet Zabadi Bel Khiar? 

Salata means salad, zabadi means yogurt, and khiar means cucumber.

This simple salad that consists of three simple ingredients is so popular in Egypt. In some ways, it is the Egyptian version of Greek Tzatziki or Indian Raita.

It is served as an appetizer or as a pairing dish for rolled grape leaves or hearty stews.

Ingredients Of Salatet Zabadi Bel Khiar (Yogurt-Cucumber Salad)

Although it is an incredibly simple salad to make, the right ingredients should take it to the next level. Here is what you need to use to make this refreshing salad.

• Yogurt 

In Salated Zabadi, or yogurt-cucumber salad, I prefer to use Greek yogurt (full fat or no fat) . The Greek yogurt’s texture works better for this salad compared to regular yogurt. Also, the Greek yogurt’s density serves as a reliable medium for the other flavors and textures of the salad, unlike the regular yogurt that is slightly watery.

• Cucumber 

Japanese and Persian cucumbers are the best types of cucumbers to make Zabadi Bel Khiar. They are crunchy and less watery compared to other types. Unlike the Greek tzatziki, the cucumbers are sliced in 1/2 inch slices and not grated.

Half each cucumber lengthwise,  and scrap the seeds with a teaspoon. Leaving in the seeds will spoil the texture of the salad and make it watery.

Persian/Lebanese Cucumber

Japanese Cucumber

• Mint 

I use both fresh and dry mint in this salad. Even though both are refreshing each delivers a different note. The freshness of the mint balances the pungent scent and taste of garlic.

Dry Mint

Fresh Mint

• Garlic 

In this salad Garlic powder is a subtle and better alternative to fresh garlic, which could be too strong and overpowering in uncooked dishes in general, and fresh salads in specific.

• Lemon 

A drizzle of lemon is optional but it goes a long way.

• Olive Oil 

Extra virgin olive oil is my personal favorite as it rounds up the mediterranean flavors in this dish.

• Salt & Pepper 

Season the yogurt-cucumber to taste.

Success Secrets 

• Make this salad a day ahead, so the mint, garlic, and cucumber impart their flavors in the yogurt.
• Scrap the cucumber seeds with a spoon as they will release their water and make the salad watery.
• Serve it cold.

Health Benefits 

The healthy combination of greek yogurt, cucumber, mint, and olive oil is a winner. Greek yogurt alone is known of improving bone health, reducing hunger, boosting the metabolism, and improving gut health. On the other hand, the cucumber is low in calories, yet contains many important vitamins and minerals, as well as a high water content that hydrates the body. The addition of mint relieves indigestion and makes this salad  an excellent addition to round up meals.

Check Out More Egyptian Appetizers Here:

You might also like:

• Baba Ganouj
• Rolled grape leaves

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Salatet Zabadi (Cucumber-Yogurt Salad)

 INGREDIENTS 

• 1 – 1 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 3-4 Persian or Japanese cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and sliced to 1/2-inch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 
• 1 teaspoon julienned fresh mint
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mint 
• Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine the ingredients: Add the yogurt to a deep mixing bowl, then add the sliced and seeded cucumber, the fresh and dry mint, season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve: Transfer the Cucumber-Yogurt dish to a serving dish, level it with the back of a spoon. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh mint.
3. Store: Keep the Cucumber-Yogurt in the fridge for up to five days.