This refreshing cucumber feta salad is perfect for hot days! It combines crunchy cucumbers with creamy feta cheese and a splash of tangy dressing. Yum!
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up! Just chop, mix, and you’re ready to enjoy this cool and tasty dish. Perfect as a side or a light snack! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crisp cucumbers are the star! I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, but regular cucumbers work fine too. If you want a twist, consider using Persian cucumbers for their sweetness.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely creamy texture and salty flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute with vegan feta or even crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon for tang.
Herbs: Fresh dill brings unique flavor, but you can use parsley or basil if you’re not a fan. Mint adds a refreshing note—feel free to adjust the amount or skip if you’d like.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are optional, but they add a pop of color and sweetness. You can use grape tomatoes or even diced bell peppers for extra crunch. If you want the salad to be low-carb, you could leave them out.
How Do I Prepare the Cucumbers Without Losing Flavor?
Slicing cucumbers correctly can make a big difference in your salad. Thin slices allow the dressing to penetrate better, enhancing flavor. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even cuts. Here’s how:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, and slice the ends off.
- Cut them in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds if they’re large.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin half-moons for a nice bite-sized texture.
Chilling the salad after mixing gives the flavors time to meld, making it even tastier! Enjoy your refreshing cucumber feta salad!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for extra color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and should be chilled for at least 15 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large bowl, toss together the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes (if you’re using them), thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh dill, and chopped mint. Make sure everything is well combined for a colorful mix!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until all the ingredients are nicely blended.
3. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat the veggies evenly with the dressing.
4. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it a gentle toss. Be careful not to break up the feta too much; we want those lovely chunks!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully. Once chilled, it’s ready to serve as a refreshing side dish or a light snack!
This salad is crisp, tangy, and perfect for summer! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! You can substitute feta with crumbled goat cheese for a creamy texture or use shredded mozzarella for a milder flavor. Vegan cheese alternatives also work if you prefer a dairy-free option!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crunch, but it will still be flavorful. If it looks watery, just give it a gentle toss before serving.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the ingredients and make the dressing ahead of time. Just mix the salad right before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy. The salad can be assembled up to 4 hours in advance, but avoid adding feta until just before serving to maintain its texture.
What Else Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to customize! Diced bell peppers, olives, or avocado can add more flavor and texture. You can also throw in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein, making it a more filling meal.
