Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Cucumber feta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer with its crisp vegetables and creamy feta cheese. I often turn to this recipe when entertaining guests or looking for a light lunch during those hot days. The combination of cucumbers, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs creates a delightful medley that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Trust me, once you whip this up, you won’t want to put it back in the fridge!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One of the standout features of cucumber feta salad is its incredible ease and speed; you can have it ready in just about 20 minutes. It’s budget-friendly, too, as you can find the ingredients at any grocery store without breaking the bank. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad is a hit at barbecues, picnics, and even family dinners. It’s light enough to serve as an appetizer but satisfying enough to accompany grilled meats or crusty bread.
“This cucumber feta salad was a hit at our last barbecue! Super fresh and SO easy to throw together. I’ll definitely keep this in my regular rotation.” – Emily R.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making cucumber feta salad is straightforward and doesn’t require culinary expertise. You’ll start by preparing your fresh ingredients, which is the heart of this dish. Next, it’s all about combining those ingredients in a way that amplifies their flavors—tossing and dressing until everything is beautifully coated.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to prepare your cucumber feta salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute red onion with green onions for a milder flavor or use goat cheese instead of feta for a different tangy taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion with the chopped dill and parsley. Toss gently to mix.
- Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, ensuring it stays intact.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This cucumber feta salad shines when served on a beautiful platter, garnished with additional parsley or dill for flair. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish and can accompany pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. You can also enjoy it by itself for a refreshing lunch.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should last for about 2-3 days. However, be mindful that the cucumbers may release water over time, so it’s best to eat it within a day or two for optimal crunch. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Practical Cooking Tips
- For the best flavor, choose ripe, firm cucumbers. English cucumbers are great for this salad because they have fewer seeds and a thin skin.
- If you want to save time, prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to serve.
- Using fresh herbs can make a world of difference; consider mixing in mint for a unique twist.
Creative Twists
Looking to shake things up? You can add diced ripe tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and texture. For a protein-packed option, try adding chickpeas or grilled shrimp. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, this dish naturally fits the bill without any modifications necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to make cucumber feta salad?
This salad can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for last-minute meals.
2. Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese works well in place of feta if you prefer a different flavor.
3. How long can I store leftover cucumber feta salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. However, for the best texture, enjoy it within a day.
This cucumber feta salad is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that captures the freshness of summer. Enjoy the simple pleasure of making and sharing this delightful salad with friends and family!
Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced English cucumbers preferred for fewer seeds.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced Can be substituted with green onions for a milder flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped Using fresh herbs enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Can garnish the salad with additional parsley or dill.
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled Can be replaced with goat cheese for a different tang.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to preferred taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion with the chopped dill and parsley. Toss gently to mix.
- Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese, ensuring it stays intact.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
