Name: Cucumber Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 1 small red onion; 1/4 cup fresh dill; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 1 cup feta cheese; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that screams summer, then this Cucumber Feta Salad is just what you need! This delightful salad combines crisp cucumbers with creamy feta cheese and vibrant herbs, making it not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. It’s one of those recipes that I turn to time and again, whether I’m hosting a family gathering or just enjoying a sunny afternoon at home. Trust me, this Cucumber Feta Salad will impress your friends and family while keeping things simple and fresh.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous picnics. And the best part? It gets even better after sitting for a bit, allowing all those wonderful flavors to mingle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this salad ready in no time.
Family-friendly: The balance of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge—great for meal prep!
Refreshing taste: Perfectly suited for warm weather, each bite is like a cool breeze on a hot day.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad. You probably already have most of these on hand!

For the 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

For the Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the great things about this Cucumber Feta Salad is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

Add some color: Toss in some halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness and color.
Include olives: Adding olives gives an extra briny flavor that complements the feta beautifully.
Incorporate bell peppers: For added crunch, try mixing in some diced bell peppers.
Experiment with nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch!

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, dill, and parsley. Toss gently until everything is well mixed. This step is crucial as it ensures that all those lovely flavors are evenly distributed before adding the feta.

Step 2: Add the Feta Cheese

Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your vegetable mix. Carefully fold it in without breaking up the cheese too much. The feta adds creaminess that balances out the fresh crunch of the cucumbers.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This dressing will enhance all the flavors in your salad. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully!

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your homemade dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Let your salad rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving; this allows all those fantastic flavors to meld together perfectly.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Cucumber Feta Salad! Whether it’s served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch, I know you’ll love every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Feta Salad

Creating the perfect Cucumber Feta Salad is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines!

Use the freshest ingredients – Fresh cucumbers and herbs make a significant difference in flavor and texture, ensuring that every bite is crisp and vibrant.
Adjust the seasoning – Taste as you go! Depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance the flavors just right.
Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the freshness and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Experiment with textures – Adding crunchy elements like bell peppers or nuts will not only add flavor but also create a delightful contrast to the creamy feta.
Customize your herbs – Don’t hesitate to swap out dill or parsley for other fresh herbs like mint or basil. This can give your salad a unique twist!

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad

Serving Cucumber Feta Salad is an opportunity to be creative and make it visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of extra chopped dill or parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and enhance its citrus notes.
Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the flavor profile without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers offer a savory protein option that complements the refreshing salad wonderfully.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herb-packed grain dish brings a hearty yet light texture, making it a great pairing for your Cucumber Feta Salad.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds warmth and depth to your meal, contrasting nicely with the coolness of the salad.
Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft pita bread served with creamy hummus makes for a lovely appetizer that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.

Enjoy preparing and sharing this delightful Cucumber Feta Salad! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as part of your everyday meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Feta Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it for later use.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep the salad refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as cucumbers can become mushy once thawed.
Instead, prepare only what you need to keep it fresh and crisp.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold; there’s no need to heat it.
If stored, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Cucumber Feta Salad that might help you out!

Can I use different herbs in my Cucumber Feta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil to add your unique twist.

How long does Cucumber Feta Salad last in the fridge?

Cucumber Feta Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I add protein to my Cucumber Feta Salad?

Yes! You can easily boost the protein content by adding chickpeas or grilled chicken if desired.

Is Cucumber Feta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This salad is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or sides throughout the week.

What can I serve with my Cucumber Feta Salad?

This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, or even as a topping on sandwiches for a light lunch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cucumber Feta Salad! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. With its vibrant flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Try it out, share it with friends and family, and relish every bite!

Cucumber Feta Salad

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean

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Description

Enjoy the delightful flavors of summer with this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply a light lunch at home, this vibrant dish brings together crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs in a light dressing. With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s an effortless recipe that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Not only is this salad versatile and easy to customize, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or enjoy it on its own for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large cucumbers
1 small red onion
1/4 cup fresh dill
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, dill, and parsley.
Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Let the salad rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.