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This Cucumber Dill Yogurt-Free Sauce is a refreshing and light condiment perfect for summer dishes.
Made with fresh cucumbers, dill, and a creamy cashew base, it adds a burst of flavor to salads, grilled meats, and sandwiches-without any dairy, soy, or gluten.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Sauce
The Cucumber Dill Yogurt-Free Sauce is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a creamy and flavorful condiment.
Finely chopped cucumbers add crispness, while dill and lemon juice brighten the flavor. Soaked cashews provide a smooth, yogurt-like texture-making this sauce perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this sauce is quick and simple. After soaking the cashews, everything is blended together until creamy and smooth. A brief chill in the fridge helps the flavors meld perfectly.
Perfect Pairings
This sauce is incredibly versatile. It works great as a dip for fresh vegetables, a drizzle for salads, or a topping for grilled meats and sandwiches. You can even use it as a creamy dressing for grain bowls or wraps.
Visual Appeal
In a serving bowl, the light green hue from cucumber and dill gives this sauce a fresh, vibrant look. Garnish with an extra sprig of dill and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.
Health Benefits
Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while dill offers antioxidant benefits and supports digestion. Cashews provide healthy fats and plant-based protein, making this sauce as nutritious as it is delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this sauce with grilled chicken or fish, toss it with a summer salad, or use it as a dip for pita and veggie sticks. It’s a great way to add flavor without any dairy or soy.
Cucumber Dill Yogurt-Free Sauce Recipe
This light and creamy sauce is packed with fresh cucumber and dill flavor – without any yogurt or dairy. It’s a perfect option for dipping, drizzling, or dressing your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 20 minutes and drained
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed for blending)
Instructions
- Soak Cashews: Place cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 20 minutes, then drain well.
- Prepare Cucumber: Peel and roughly chop the cucumber. You can remove seeds if desired for a smoother texture.
- Blend: In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, cucumber, dill, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 2–4 tablespoons of water, blending until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.
- Chill: Transfer the sauce to a container and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve: Use as a dip, salad dressing, sandwich spread, or topping for grilled meats and veggies.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
Brief Background
Cucumber Dill Yogurt-Free Sauce is a refreshing, dairy-free alternative to traditional tzatziki.
It combines crisp cucumber, fresh dill, garlic, and a creamy base like sour cream or dairy-free mayo to deliver all the cooling herbaceous flavor without the yogurt.
This sauce is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or simply looking for a lighter, tangy condiment to pair with Mediterranean dishes, grilled meats, or fresh vegetables.
Recipe Tips or Variations
- Grate and salt the cucumber, then let it drain to remove excess moisture.
- Use vegan mayo, sour cream, or blended cashews as a creamy base if avoiding dairy entirely.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for brightness.
- Include minced garlic or shallot for extra depth of flavor.
- Fresh dill is best, but dried dill can work in a pinch-use about 1/3 the amount.
- Let the sauce chill for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce completely vegan?
Yes, just use vegan mayo or a plant-based sour cream substitute as the base.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Stir before each use.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Not recommended. The texture may change and become watery once thawed due to the cucumber content.
What can I use this sauce on?
It’s perfect with falafel, grilled chicken, roasted veggies, pita, or as a dip for fresh crudités.
Do I have to peel the cucumber?
No, but peeling it gives a smoother texture. Leave the skin on for added color and fiber.

With over a decade of experience turning everyday ingredients into reliable, crowd-pleasing meals, Ryan knows firsthand the frustration of wasting time and effort in the kitchen. He specializes in clear, no-fuss guidance—breaking down techniques, time-saving tips, and smart shortcuts so that even complete beginners feel empowered and confident.
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