High Protein Cucumber Salad – The Ultimate Fresh & Filling Power Bowl (2025)

Light, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying, this High Protein Cucumber Salad is everything a busy lunch or post-workout meal should be. It’s refreshing yet hearty, packed with lean protein, and easy to make in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re on a low-carb kick, tracking macros, or just craving something healthy and fast, this salad checks every box.

Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or a guilt-free dinner side, this recipe transforms the humble cucumber into the base of a protein-packed powerhouse.

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High Protein Cucumber Salad

A protein-rich cucumber salad made with tender chicken breast, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing—fresh, filling, and perfect for a healthy meal or side.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Dish, Salad

Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers sliced or diced
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast grilled or shredded
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or your choice of cheese

Dressing

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 2% or full-fat preferred
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1 tbsp toasted seeds or slivered almonds optional

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet or grill pan
• Knife & cutting board

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, cooked chicken, tomatoes (if using), and feta cheese.
3. Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and optional seeds or almonds just before serving.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Best enjoyed the day it’s made, but can be stored refrigerated for 1–2 days.

Notes

This salad makes a great meal prep option. Swap in canned tuna or rotisserie chicken for quick assembly. You can also add chopped avocado or cooked quinoa for more texture and nutrients.

Why Choose a High Protein Cucumber Salad?

Not Just a Side Salad

This isn’t your average cucumber side dish. By adding ingredients like grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese, or chickpeas, you turn a basic veggie bowl into a high-protein lunch or dinner that actually keeps you full.

Perfect for Clean Eating and Low-Carb Goals

Cucumbers are naturally low in calories and carbs, making them the ideal base for keto-friendly, paleo, or diabetic-friendly salads. Paired with clean proteins and healthy fats, this salad becomes a smart option for almost any eating plan.

Looking for more meals? Explore our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust No Flour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into a classic high protein cucumber salad—but feel free to mix and match:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 large English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced
• 1 cup cooked grilled chicken breast (diced or shredded)
• ½ cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Dressing Options:

• 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp lemon juice + ½ tsp mustard
• Or: ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt + 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar + dill

Optional Protein Boosters:

• ½ cup chickpeas or lentils (for vegetarian version)
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or tofu
• 1 tbsp hemp hearts or sunflower seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or almonds

Step-by-Step Instructions For high protein cucumber salad

Step 1: Slice the Veggies

Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get thin cucumber slices. Place them in a large bowl with the tomatoes and onions.

Step 2: Add Protein

Top your cucumber base with grilled chicken, boiled eggs, and either cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. Add chickpeas or nuts if you like extra crunch and protein.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Whisk together your chosen ingredients—olive oil + lemon juice or the creamy yogurt version. Season to taste.

Step 4: Toss & Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Chill for 10–15 minutes for best flavor (but it’s great right away, too).

Want even more crunch? Sprinkle seeds or nuts just before serving.

Flavor Variations

You can make this protein-rich cucumber salad your own with these fun twists:

Mediterranean Version

• Add kalamata olives, feta, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette
• Serve with grilled shrimp or salmon for bonus protein

Spicy Asian-Inspired Bowl

• Add shredded chicken or tofu
• Use a sesame-ginger soy dressing
• Top with peanuts, shredded carrots, and cilantro

Creamy Ranch Kick

• Mix in turkey bacon bits and ranch-seasoned Greek yogurt
• Toss in avocado and scallions

Nutrition & Macros (Estimates Per Serving)

Note: Macros depend on your protein base and dressing.

Why This Salad Works for Meal Prep

• Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Dressing can be stored separately to keep things crisp
• Easy to portion in jars or containers
• Tastes better chilled after the flavors meld

FAQs

Conclusion

This High Protein Cucumber Salad is everything you want in a quick, nutritious meal—fresh, light, and packed with protein. Whether you’re fueling your day, managing your macros, or just craving something crunchy and clean, this salad delivers.

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