Green Salad with Cilantro Yogurt Dressing

The story this dish tells

This salad represents the intersection of traditional and contemporary: everyday ingredients enhanced with a Mediterranean and Latin-inspired dressing. It is a celebration of fresh, simple, and authentic flavors, created to nourish and delight effortlessly.

Health benefits

• Rich in probiotics (from Greek yogurt) for digestive health

• High in antioxidants, vitamin C, and folate

• Naturally low in calories

• A good source of fiber

• May support hydration thanks to high-water-content ingredients

Preparation tips

• Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer texture, or a lactose-free version if needed

• Fresh cilantro is key — avoid dried substitutions

• For stronger garlic flavor, let the dressing rest for 15–30 minutes before serving

• To keep the greens crisp, dress the salad just before serving

Best season to enjoy it

• Spring and summer, when herbs are abundant and fresh salads feel most revitalizing.

Green Salad with Cilantro Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Servings: 4

Ingredients
For the salad:

• 4 cups mixed leafy greens (baby spinach, arugula, romaine, or your favorite blend)

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)

• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (can use lactose-free version)

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for balance)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let sit in the fridge while prepping the salad.

2. In a large bowl, combine the greens, cucumber, onion, avocado (if using), and cherry tomatoes.

3. Drizzle the dressing just before serving and toss gently to coat.

4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Storage and shelf life

• The salad is best enjoyed fresh. The dressing can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Ingredient swaps

• Use lactose-free or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free needs

• Add sunflower seeds instead of avocado for healthy fats with crunch

• Replace honey with agave to make it vegan

Pairing ideas

• Grilled chicken breast or tofu with lemon

• Stuffed jumbo shells with Mornay sauce

• Lentil soup or a light vegetable broth

🤓 Did you know?

• Cilantro has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It may help reduce inflammation and aid in detoxifying heavy metals from the body. Plus, it is a natural source of vitamin K and potassium!

Dietary restrictions to consider

Suitable for people following:

• Vegetarian diets

• Gluten-free diets (ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free)

• Nut-free diets

• With caution for those with lactose intolerance
  (Greek yogurt contains lactose, although in smaller amounts than regular yogurt. A lactose-free version is recommended if you are highly sensitive.)

Important: If you have any doubts about incorporating this food into your diet, it is always a good idea to consult with your dietitian or doctor.