Name: Jar Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cucumbers (thinly sliced); 1 onion (thinly sliced); 4 tbsp curd (yogurt); ½ tbsp red chilli powder; ¼ tbsp black pepper powder; ¼ tbsp cumin seeds powder; ½ tbsp chilli flakes; Salt to taste; 1 tbsp white sesame seeds; ½ tbsp nigella seeds (kalonji); Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

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There’s something so refreshing about a chilled cucumber salad on a warm day.

I still remember the first time I made this quick jar version. It was one of those lazy afternoons when I didn’t want to cook much but craved something tangy, crunchy, and satisfying.

A few simple ingredients, a quick shake, and suddenly I had a bowl of cool, creamy salad that tasted like summer in every bite.

It’s the kind of recipe that makes you smile because it’s so easy and yet feels so special.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Jar Cucumber Salad Recipe

Quick and Easy: You only need a handful of ingredients and less than 10 minutes to make this salad. It’s perfect when you want something light and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy and Crunchy: The yogurt gives it a lovely creaminess while the cucumber and onion add that perfect crisp bite. Every forkful is refreshing and full of texture.

Healthy and Wholesome: This salad is low in calories but rich in flavor. With fresh veggies, cooling curd, and just the right hint of spice, it’s a guilt-free treat that pairs well with almost any meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Because it’s made in a jar, you can store it easily and shake it up whenever you’re ready to eat. It’s one of those smart recipes that work for busy days or packed lunches, yes! You heard right.

What Is Jar Cucumber Salad?

Jar Cucumber Salad is a quick, no-cook Indian-style salad made by layering cucumbers, onions, curd, and spices inside a jar, then shaking it all together for instant flavor.

It’s the perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and tangy, like a yogurt raita but with more bite and spice. This salad doesn’t just taste refreshing; it looks beautiful too, with its colorful layers of vegetables and seeds.

Plus, the jar method makes it travel-friendly and mess-free, ideal for office lunches or picnics.

Ingredients You’ll Need For Cucumber Salad

Cucumbers: Thinly sliced cucumbers give this salad its refreshing crunch. They soak up the creamy dressing beautifully while staying light and crisp.

Onion: Thinly sliced onions add a bit of bite and sweetness that balance the tangy curd and spices perfectly.

Curd (Yogurt): The creamy base that brings everything together. It coats the veggies and makes every bite cool, smooth, and slightly tangy.

Red Chilli Powder: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up all the flavors. It’s what gives this salad its bold and lively kick.

Black Pepper Powder: A subtle spice that enhances the tanginess of the curd and complements the cucumber’s freshness.

Cumin Powder: Brings a warm, earthy undertone that ties the salad together. Just a pinch makes a big difference in flavor.

Chilli Flakes: Adds texture and an extra spark of spice. It’s optional but highly recommended if you love a little heat.

Salt: Balances all the flavors. Don’t skip it, it helps draw out the moisture from cucumbers and makes the salad more flavorful.

White Sesame Seeds: For a nutty crunch that gives a little surprise in every bite. They also add a touch of richness to the creamy dressing.

Nigella Seeds (Kalonji): These tiny black seeds have a slightly smoky, onion-like flavor that deepens the salad’s taste beautifully.

Fresh Coriander Leaves: The finishing touch. They bring freshness and a pop of green color that makes the salad look and taste even better.

How to Make Jar Cucumber Salad

Making this salad couldn’t be simpler. It’s one of those recipes that look fancy but come together in minutes.

1. Prep the Veggies. Thinly slice the cucumbers and onions so they can soak up the dressing evenly. Finely chop the coriander leaves and keep them aside.

2. Choose Your Jar. Use a clean glass or plastic jar with a tight-fitting lid. This helps when you shake the salad, no spills, just fun mixing!

3. Layer the Ingredients. Add cucumber slices, onion slices, and chopped coriander leaves to the jar. The colors already look so beautiful together!

4. Add the Creamy Dressing. Spoon in the curd, then sprinkle in red chilli powder, black pepper, cumin powder, chilli flakes, salt, sesame seeds, and nigella seeds.

5. Shake It Up. Close the lid tightly and shake the jar for 2–3 minutes. Watch as everything blends into a creamy, well-coated salad, it’s oddly satisfying!

6. Serve and Enjoy. Open the jar, give it one last gentle stir, and transfer the salad to a serving plate. Enjoy it chilled for the best taste.

Tips and Variations

Want to make it your own? These tips and twists will help.

Use Greek yogurt if you prefer a thicker dressing. It gives the salad a rich and creamy texture.
Add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang and brightness. It pairs beautifully with cucumbers.
Mix in grated carrots or cabbage for more crunch and color. It’s a great way to stretch the salad for a crowd.
Toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding them; this enhances their nutty flavor.
Adjust the spice level easily by adding more or less chilli flakes or powder based on your preference.
Try mint leaves instead of coriander for a cooling twist, especially during summer.
Chill before serving for 15–20 minutes so the flavors meld together perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy cucumber salad is versatile and goes with just about anything. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light lunch on its own.

With Grilled Meats: Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs to add a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors.
As a Rice Companion: It pairs wonderfully with spicy rice dishes like biryani or pulao, it cools down the spice and adds balance.
With Indian Curries: Scoop it alongside butter chicken, dal, or spicy paneer dishes. It’s the ultimate cooling side.
Light Snack Idea: Serve it with roasted papad or crispy crackers for a quick, crunchy bite.

If you want to store it, keep the salad refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick shake before serving, it freshens up beautifully.