This fresh cucumber feta salad is a cool and tasty dish perfect for hot days! With crispy cucumbers and creamy feta, it’s all about refreshing flavors.
Mix in some juicy tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil, and you’re set! I love having this salad with grilled chicken—it’s a great way to add some crunch to your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: The star of this salad! I prefer using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just be sure to peel them if the skin is thick or waxy.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad its creamy and salty kick. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can try ricotta or cottage cheese, though the flavor will differ. For a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice can be a nice substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and a pop of color. If they aren’t in season, you can use diced regular tomatoes instead. For something different, consider adding diced bell peppers for extra crunch!
Red Onion: It adds a nice bite, but if you find raw onion too strong, try soaking the slices in cold water for a few minutes. This softens the flavor. Sweet onions or green onions can also be a good substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Salad Ingredients?
To really maximize the flavor in your cucumber feta salad, focus on the freshness of your ingredients and how you combine them. Here are some tips:
- Always use ripe, fresh vegetables. The taste really shines through in simple salads.
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to come together nicely.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving! You may want to add a little extra salt, or a splash more vinegar for zing.
Remember, salads are versatile, so feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your tastes!
Fresh Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cucumber feta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, it needs a short chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all those fresh flavors to come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, slice them thinly. If you prefer, you can peel them partially or fully before slicing to suit your taste.
2. Chop the Veggies:
Next, take a large mixing bowl and toss in the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and the thinly sliced red onion. Give them a gentle mix to combine.
3. Add the Feta and Dill:
Now, crumble the feta cheese over the top of the veggies. If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it over the salad now for that extra burst of flavor.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar or lemon juice. This dressing will tie everything together!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to break the feta too much; we want it to stay chunky!
6. Season Your Salad:
Now, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle toss to mix the seasoning in.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes. This chill time helps the flavors meld beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your refreshing cucumber feta salad as a side dish alongside your favorite mains. It’s delicious and so easy to make!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Ingredients in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences. You can add bell peppers, olives, or even avocado for extra richness. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so stir gently before serving again to refresh the flavors.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and make the dressing ahead of time. However, it’s best to combine them just a short time before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If you mix them in advance, eat within a few hours for the best texture!
