Ingredients (Serves 4)

• **3 small cucumbers** (or 2 medium ones), washed and thinly sliced
• **1 small carrot**, peeled and grated
• **1 firm tomato**, finely diced
• **¼ red onion**, finely sliced
• **2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt**
• **1 tablespoon light mayonnaise**
• **1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice**
• **1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar**
• **1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil**
• **1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill** (or chives, if preferred)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: a few toasted sunflower or sesame seeds for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
   Slice the cucumbers into thin slices. To prevent them from releasing too much water, **sprinkle them lightly with salt** and let them drain for 10 minutes in a colander. Then, rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
   Grate the carrot and dice the tomato. Finely slice the red onion. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, cider vinegar, and olive oil. Add the dill or chives, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Assemble the Salad
   In the salad bowl, combine the cucumbers, carrots, tomato, and onion. Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables and **toss gently to coat them well.**
5. Step 5: Serve
   Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for **15 to 30 minutes** before serving. This allows the flavors to develop. Sprinkle with sesame or sunflower seeds just before serving for a touch of crunch.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Pro Tips for Success

• **Prevent Wateriness:** Always sprinkle sliced cucumbers with salt and drain them before patting dry to keep the salad crisp.
• **Best Flavor:** Let the salad **chill for at least 30 minutes** for the dressing to properly meld with the vegetables.
• **Uniformity:** Cutting the vegetables uniformly ensures even bites and a pleasing texture.
• **Make Ahead:** You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance, but **add the dressing at the last minute** to prevent it from becoming too runny.

Customization and Variations

• **Add Protein:** Mix in **chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese** for a more filling meal.
• **Different Cream Base:** For a tangier twist, use **sour cream** or replace the Greek yogurt with coconut or soy yogurt for a **vegan version**.
• **Texture Swap:** Replace the grated carrot with **julienned bell peppers** or shredded cabbage.
• **Spice:** Sprinkle **red pepper flakes** or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

How to Store

• Store the dressed salad in an **airtight container** in the refrigerator for up to **2 days**.
• If possible, **store the dressing separately** and toss it in just before eating to maintain maximum freshness and crispness.
• **Avoid freezing** the salad, as the cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing.
• **Revive Leftovers:** Drain any excess liquid and add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to perk up the flavor.