This Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad is a cool and tasty treat for your taste buds! Crunchy cucumbers and salty feta combine with a hint of lemon and herbs for a delightful dish.
Perfect for a summer day, this salad is super easy to whip up. I love it as a snack or a side dish at picnics. Plus, it’s so light that you won’t feel weighed down—just fresh and happy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the main star here. You can use English cucumbers, which are seedless and have a thinner skin, or regular cucumbers. If you’re out of fresh cucumbers, zucchini can work in a pinch, but the taste will be different.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty and creamy element. If you’re trying to reduce dairy, consider using a vegan feta or crumbled tofu with some salt for flavor. I like to crumble it myself for better texture.
Red Onion: This adds a little zing. If you find red onions too strong, use green onions or shallots instead. Soaking the onions in cold water for a few minutes can also soften their flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Dill is perfect, but if you can’t find it, try parsley or basil instead. Fresh mint can add a refreshing twist too! I like mixing a little mint with dill for extra flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Cucumber Salad?
To really enhance the flavors in this salad, it’s important to let it chill after mixing. Here’s how:
- Mix your dressing ingredients well before adding them to the salad. This helps distribute the flavors evenly.
- Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 15–20 minutes. This cooling time allows the cucumbers to absorb the lemon and olive oil, making each bite refreshing.
- Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—you might want more salt or a splash of lemon for balance!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After mixing it up, let it chill in the fridge for at least 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors. In total, you’ll be ready to serve in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. If you prefer, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds extra crunch and nutrients. Slice the cucumbers thinly so they mix well with the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Be gentle when mixing to keep the feta from crumbling too much.
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add the chopped fresh dill to the bowl. If you’re using mint or parsley, toss that in too! These fresh herbs will bring a wonderful aroma and flavor to the salad.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the salt or other seasonings if needed.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the cucumbers and feta are nicely coated with the dressing.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 15-20 minutes for the best flavor experience. This time also helps the cucumbers stay crisp and refreshing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy it cold as a refreshing side dish or a light salad! It’s perfect for summertime gatherings or simply enjoying at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are great for their mild flavor and thin skin, regular garden cucumbers work perfectly too. If you’re using regular cucumbers, peeling them might help reduce bitterness.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, you might find that the cucumbers release some water, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! To save time, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. For the best taste, I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
What Other Herbs Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of dill or want to try something different, fresh parsley, basil, or mint can add a nice twist! Feel free to experiment with whatever fresh herbs you enjoy!
