Stuffed Cucumbers with Greek Orzo Salad & Creamy Tzatziki Drizzle

Introduction: Why Stuffed Cucumbers Are the Ultimate Mediterranean Dish

Stuffed cucumbers with Greek orzo salad and tzatziki drizzle are a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious Mediterranean-inspired recipe that combines crisp vegetables, tender pasta, tangy cheese, and bold herbs into one visually stunning dish. Perfect for summer lunches, healthy dinners, BBQ side dishes, low-calorie meal prep, and gluten-free adaptations, this recipe has become increasingly popular across food blogs, Pinterest, Instagram, and wellness-focused meal plans.

This dish delivers a cool, crunchy bite from cucumbers, balanced with savory orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, creamy feta cheese, and a luxurious tzatziki sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning Mediterranean diet meals, or searching for high-protein vegetarian recipes, stuffed cucumbers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🌿 Mediterranean diet friendly

• 🥒 Low-carb, refreshing, and hydrating

• 🧀 Rich in protein and calcium

• 🍅 Packed with antioxidants and fiber

• 🥗 Perfect for meal prep and entertaining

• 💰 Uses affordable, accessible ingredients

• 📈 High-CPM SEO recipe ideal for food blogs and monetization

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Ingredients Overview

For the Stuffed Cucumbers

• 4 large English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers)

• 1 cup cooked orzo pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (red and yellow), halved

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ½ cup sliced green or Kalamata olives

• ¼ cup finely diced red onion

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint (optional but recommended)

For the Greek Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Drizzle

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)

• ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill

• Salt to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly.

2. Slice each cucumber lengthwise.

3. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds to create a hollow “boat.”

4. Lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.

5. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo Pasta

1. Bring salted water to a boil.

2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

4. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Greek Orzo Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cooked orzo

• Cherry tomatoes

• Olives

• Red onion

• Fresh herbs

• Crumbled feta cheese

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over the orzo mixture and toss gently until well coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate cucumber and squeeze out all excess water.

2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt.

3. Chill for at least 15 minutes for best flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Cucumbers

1. Spoon the Greek orzo salad generously into each cucumber boat.

2. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.

3. Garnish with extra herbs and cracked black pepper.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and better texture.

• Chill the cucumbers before serving for maximum freshness.

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• For a vegan version, replace feta with dairy-free cheese and yogurt with plant-based yogurt.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 9g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 13g

• Fiber: 3g

• Calcium: 15% DV

This recipe fits well into weight loss meal plans, heart-healthy diets, and Mediterranean lifestyle eating.

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Recipe Variations

Low-Carb Version

Replace orzo with:

• Cauliflower rice

• Quinoa (for gluten-free)

• Chickpea pasta

High-Protein Version

Add:

• Grilled chicken breast

• Salmon flakes

• Tuna

• Hard-boiled eggs

Spicy Mediterranean Twist

• Add crushed red pepper flakes

• Use spicy olives

• Drizzle with harissa yogurt sauce

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a light lunch or dinner

• Pair with grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or fish

• Add to a mezze platter with hummus, pita, and dolmas

• Ideal for summer potlucks, picnics, and BBQs

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Store assembled cucumbers for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

• Keep orzo salad and tzatziki separate for best texture.

• Perfect for next-day lunches and healthy snacks.

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Related Questions (High-CPM SEO FAQ Section)

Is stuffed cucumber healthy?

Yes, stuffed cucumbers are low in calories, high in hydration, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins, making them ideal for healthy eating.

Can I make stuffed cucumbers ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and assemble just before serving.

Are stuffed cucumbers good for weight loss?

Yes. They are low-carb, nutrient-dense, and filling, making them excellent for weight management.

What is the best cucumber for stuffing?

English cucumbers are best due to their thin skin and minimal seeds.

Is orzo pasta gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is not gluten-free, but gluten-free orzo alternatives are available.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. Substitute feta with vegan cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt.

What goes well with stuffed cucumbers?

They pair well with grilled meats, seafood, Mediterranean salads, and mezze platters.

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High-CPM SEO Keywords Used Naturally

• Stuffed cucumber recipe

• Mediterranean diet recipes

• Healthy summer meals

• Low calorie appetizers

• Greek orzo salad

• Tzatziki sauce recipe

• High protein vegetarian meals

• Meal prep healthy recipes

• Weight loss friendly foods

• Easy Mediterranean recipes

• Gluten free summer recipes

• Clean eating meal ideas

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Final Thoughts

Stuffed cucumbers with Greek orzo salad and tzatziki drizzle are more than just a recipe—they’re a Mediterranean lifestyle dish that embodies freshness, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re a food blogger, health enthusiast, or home cook, this dish delivers visual appeal, monetization potential, and unbeatable taste.