This refreshing Greek cucumber salad is a wonderful mix of crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and fragrant herbs. It’s simple, healthy, and perfect for any meal!
Personally, I love how it adds a burst of flavor without any fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to eat more veggies while impressing friends at dinner parties! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are a must for this salad. They’re crunchy and hydrating! If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use English cucumbers, which are sweeter and have fewer seeds. Just make sure they are firm.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the veggies. Crumbled goat cheese can be a good substitute if you prefer a milder taste. Just remember, goat cheese has a creamier texture!
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley make this salad pop! You can try using dried herbs if fresh isn’t available, but reduce the amount to about half, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a rich flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can use avocado oil. It still has a nice taste and is healthy too!
How Do I Get the Right Texture and Flavor Balance?
To ensure your salad is fresh and flavorful, slicing your cucumbers and onions properly is key. Aim for thin, even slices so everything mixes well. For cucumbers, cutting them straight or even into half-moons works great!
- Combine all your ingredients except the dressing first to keep them crisp.
- When making the dressing, whisk it well to emulsify the olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice. This helps everything stick to the veggies better.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This short wait allows the flavors to mix without sogginess.
How to Make Easy Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta and Herbs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For Flavor:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick and can be enjoyed right away, but letting it sit for about 10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your cucumbers into thin rounds. If you love the taste of cucumber skin, you can leave it on! Next, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and the red onion as thinly as possible. Combine all these vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Feta and Herbs:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your mixed veggies. Then, add the freshly chopped parsley and dill. These herbs will add a fantastic flavor and freshness to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will create a simple yet delicious dressing that brings everything together.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together using a salad spoon or your hands until all the veggies are coated in the dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.
6. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to blend and makes the salad even more delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Greek cucumber salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It makes a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze platter. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! While cucumbers and cherry tomatoes are classic, you can add bell peppers, radishes, or even olives for extra flavor. Just make sure to keep the texture in mind so the salad remains refreshing!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta or tofu crumbles. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chopped vegetables and store them separately from the dressing in the fridge. Mix the dressing in right before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may become watery as it sits, so just give it a quick toss before serving again.
