Cucumber feta salad has become my go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal, especially when the weather heats up. I remember the first time I tried making it myself; I was looking for a light side dish for a summer barbecue, and this salad was an absolute hit! The combination of crisp, cool cucumbers, creamy, salty feta, and the bright pop of fresh dill and parsley is just divine. It’s the most refreshing cucumber feta salad I’ve ever tasted, with a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing that ties it all together. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Feta Salad
This dish is a total winner for so many reasons:
- It’s incredibly refreshing cucumber feta salad, perfect for hot days.
- The combination of textures – crisp cucumber and creamy feta – is divine.
- It’s an easy cucumber feta salad that requires no cooking.
- You can whip up this quick cucumber feta salad in just 15 minutes.
- It’s a healthy and light option, packed with fresh ingredients.
- The vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any table.
- It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch.
- The simple dressing highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Ingredients for Cucumber Feta Salad
Gathering the right cucumber feta salad ingredients is key to this delightful dish. I’ve found that using fresh, crisp produce makes all the difference in creating the best cucumber feta salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced – English cucumbers work wonderfully as they have fewer seeds.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced – This adds a nice bite and color.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped – Dill is essential for that classic Mediterranean flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note.
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled – A good quality feta cheese is a must for that creamy, salty goodness.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – This forms the base of our simple yet flavorful dressing.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a lovely tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad
Learning how to make cucumber feta salad is a game-changer for quick, delicious meals. This simple process guarantees a fantastic result every time. Follow these steps to create your own refreshing cucumber and feta salad recipe.
- Step 1: Start by preparing your vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced, and 1 small red onion, thinly sliced. I like to make sure the onion is sliced very thin so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
- Step 2: Add the fresh herbs to the bowl. Gently toss in the 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped and 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. The aroma of these fresh herbs is just amazing and really sets the stage for this wonderful cucumber feta salad.
- Step 3: Now for the star: the feta! Add the 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled over the vegetables. Fold it in carefully with a gentle hand. You want the feta to be distributed throughout, not crushed into tiny bits.
- Step 4: Prepare the dressing. In a separate, small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the oil and lemon juice are emulsified – it should look slightly creamy. This dressing is what makes this cucumber and feta salad recipe so vibrant.
- Step 5: Dress the salad. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the cucumber and feta mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. This is the final step in mastering how to make cucumber feta salad.
- Step 6: Let the flavors meld. For the best taste experience, let the salad rest for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soften slightly and the dressing to work its magic, creating the perfect easy cucumber feta salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Feta Salad
Want to elevate your cucumber feta salad game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this simple salad truly shine:
- For the crispiest cucumbers, especially in an easy cucumber feta salad, make sure they are thoroughly dried after slicing. Excess water can dilute the dressing.
- Don’t be shy with the fresh herbs! A generous amount of dill and parsley really makes this salad pop.
- When crumbling your feta, opt for a block of feta packed in brine and crumble it yourself. It has a much creamier texture and superior flavor compared to pre-crumbled varieties.
- Letting the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the best cucumber feta salad experience.
What’s the secret to perfect Cucumber Feta Salad?
The secret to a truly perfect cucumber feta salad lies in the quality and preparation of the ingredients. Using fresh, crisp cucumbers and good feta cheese, plus letting the salad sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld, makes all the difference. For more culinary inspiration, explore our collection of recipes.
Can I make Cucumber Feta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time! I often assemble the cucumbers, onion, and herbs, and keep the dressing and feta separate. Combine everything and dress about 30 minutes before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cucumber Feta Salad?
A common pitfall is using watery cucumbers; pat them dry thoroughly after slicing. Another mistake is over-mixing the feta, which can make it crumbly and less creamy. Also, ensure your dressing is well-emulsified by whisking vigorously. For a similar healthy side, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.
Best Ways to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad
This delightful salad is incredibly versatile and makes a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of meals. For a truly satisfying cucumber feta salad for dinner, I love pairing it with grilled chicken or lamb skewers. The cool, crispness of the salad perfectly balances the richness of the meat. It also shines as a side dish for baked fish or even a simple lentil soup. If you’re looking for a light lunch option, this salad on its own is fantastic, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious dressing. You might also enjoy our turkey meatloaf recipe.
Nutrition Facts for Cucumber Feta Salad
This healthy cucumber feta salad is not only delicious but also offers great nutritional benefits. Per serving, it’s a light and satisfying choice. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 360mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this cucumber feta salad. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources on nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat Cucumber Feta Salad
Proper storage is key to enjoying this delicious cucumber feta salad for days to come. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. I usually store mine in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While freezing isn’t ideal for this salad, as the cucumbers can become watery and lose their crisp texture, it’s still possible for up to 3 months if you’re looking for longer-term cucumber feta salad variations. For reheating, I simply let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can also gently warm it in a pan over low heat for a minute or two, but it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Consider trying our boat dip rotel ranch dip for another easy appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Feta Salad
What is Cucumber Feta Salad?
A cucumber feta salad is a refreshing and simple dish that combines crisp, cool cucumbers with salty, creamy feta cheese. It’s often enhanced with fresh herbs like dill and parsley, and typically tossed in a light vinaigrette, making it a popular choice for its bright flavors and healthy profile. It’s a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
What is the best cucumber feta salad dressing?
The best cucumber feta salad dressing is usually a simple vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. A touch of salt and pepper is essential. Some people also like to add a hint of garlic or a splash of red wine vinegar for extra depth, but the classic olive oil and lemon combination really lets the main ingredients shine.
Can I add other ingredients to my Cucumber Feta Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile. Many enjoy adding cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, bell peppers, or even a bit of red onion for an extra crunch and flavor dimension. These additions create wonderful cucumber feta salad variations that can suit any taste preference. For a sweet treat, check out our frozen banana snickers.
How do I prevent the cucumbers from making the salad watery?
To avoid a watery salad, it’s best to use English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds. After slicing, you can also lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently pat them dry before mixing them into your salad.
Variations of Cucumber Feta Salad You Can Try
This cucumber feta salad is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with different additions to keep things exciting! Here are a few of my favorite cucumber feta salad variations that add new dimensions of flavor and texture.
- Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad: For a burst of sweetness and color, I often add a cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the mix. They pair beautifully with the cucumbers and feta, creating a vibrant and flavorful salad.
- Cucumber Feta Salad with Olives: If you enjoy a more savory profile, tossing in a handful of Kalamata olives is a game-changer. Their briny, robust flavor complements the creamy feta and crisp cucumbers perfectly.
- Spicy Cucumber Feta Salad: For a little kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the dressing. It adds a surprising warmth that’s delicious.
- Creamy Cucumber Feta Salad: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the feta cheese with the dressing ingredients before adding them to the salad. This creates a richer, more cohesive dressing.
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad: 2 Easy Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cucumber Feta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly embodies the essence of summer. Combining crisp cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious delight for your taste buds. With its quick preparation time of just 15 minutes, it serves as an ideal side dish for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. The versatility of this salad allows for easy customization—add cherry tomatoes or olives to elevate its flavor profile. Enjoy this Cucumber Feta Salad as a nutritious and flavorful option that will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, dill, and parsley. Toss gently.
- Add crumbled feta cheese on top of the vegetables and fold it in carefully.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor and color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Experiment with different dressings, like balsamic vinegar, for a varied taste.
- This salad is best served cold.
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in cucumbers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
