Cooling Cucumber & Mint Raita Recipe

Discover the refreshing delight of Cooling Cucumber & Mint Raita, a perfect accompaniment to your meals. This creamy yoghurt-based dish combines the crispness of cucumber with the invigorating flavour of mint, creating a soothing side that complements spicy curries, grilled meats, or light salads. Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy yet flavourful addition to their menu. Whether enjoyed as a dip, a topping, or a side dish, this raita brings a burst of freshness to every bite. Perfect for summer dining or any occasion, try this classic recipe today to elevate your meals with ease.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Indian

Diet Gluten Free, Low Fat, Vegetarian

Keyword Cooling raita recipe, Cucumber and mint raita, Easy raita recipe, Homemade raita, Indian raita side dish

Prep Time 20

Servings People

Calories 60

Ingredients

1 medium-sized cucumber
250 ml plain yoghurt (preferably natural or Greek-style)
A handful of fresh mint leaves
1 small green chilli (optional)
1 tsp teaspoon roasted cumin powder
1/4 tsp salt, to taste
1/4 tsp sugar to balance flavour
A pinch of black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumber

Wash and peel the cucumber. Grate it using the coarse side of a grater, and lightly squeeze out any excess water. Set aside.
Chop the Mint
Finely chop the mint leaves. If using a green chilli, deseed it and chop it finely as well.

Mix the Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk the yoghurt until smooth.
Add the grated cucumber, chopped mint, and green chilli (if using) to the yoghurt. Stir well to combine.

Season

Add the roasted cumin powder, black salt, sugar (if desired), and a pinch of black pepper. Mix thoroughly, adjusting the salt as needed.

Serve

Chill the raita in the fridge for 15–20 minutes if you have time, or serve immediately.
Serving Suggestion
This raita pairs perfectly with biryanis, pulaos, grilled dishes, or as a cooling side with spicy curries.

Notes

Tips

To ensure the best texture, make sure the cucumber is finely grated and any excess water is gently squeezed out before combining it with the yoghurt. This will prevent the raita from becoming too watery and maintain its creamy consistency.

When choosing your cucumbers, opt for ones that are firm and free from blemishes to ensure the best texture and flavour. Fresh, aromatic mint leaves are essential for that burst of refreshing flavour. For a creamier consistency, full-fat yoghurt is recommended, though low-fat alternatives can also be used if you prefer a lighter version.

Cumin powder adds a subtle earthiness to the raita, perfectly balancing the crisp cucumber and fresh mint. Adjust the salt according to your taste preferences, and a dash of black pepper can bring a slight warmth to the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of zing, a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the raita’s overall taste, making it even more tantalising

Nutrition