This refreshing cucumber feta salad is a burst of flavor! With crunchy cucumbers, salty feta cheese, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a perfect side dish or light snack.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just chop, toss, and enjoy. It’s like a cool breeze on a hot day—you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers as they’re seedless and have a thinner skin, making them perfect for salads. If you have regular cucumbers, just peel them to avoid bitterness.
Feta Cheese: The saltiness of feta really enhances this salad. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, crumbled goat cheese works great too! For a vegan version, try using crumbled tofu or a store-bought vegan feta.
Red Onion: I love using red onion for its mild flavor and pretty color. If red onion isn’t available, sweet onions or green onions can work as substitutes.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a unique flavor, but if you don’t have fresh, dried dill can work here too—just use one-third the amount. Don’t forget, fresh parsley can also add a nice touch!
Kalamata Olives: These are a fantastic addition for extra flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip them. Try black olives or even cherry tomatoes for something different!
How Do I Keep My Cucumbers Crunchy?
To keep your cucumbers crisp, start by slicing them and salting them lightly. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then drain the excess moisture. This step helps prevent a watery salad!
- Slice cucumbers evenly for consistent texture.
- Salt them and let them rest to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat dry before adding to the salad.
This little trick will help ensure your salad remains fresh and crunchy even after being dressed!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be chilled for 15 minutes or more before serving. Overall, in just about half an hour, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a knife or a mandoline for even slices. Place your cucumber slices in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Red Onion:
Next, add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with the cucumbers. This will give your salad a nice crunch and flavor.
3. Crumble the Feta Cheese:
Now, crumble the feta cheese over the cucumber and onion mixture. It adds a wonderful salty flavor that complements the freshness of the cucumbers.
4. Mix Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing adds a zesty touch to the salad!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to mix everything, making sure the cucumbers are evenly coated but trying not to break up the feta too much.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill and mint (if using) over the salad and toss lightly again. These herbs will enhance the freshness of your dish!
7. Add Olives (Optional):
If you’re using kalamata olives, gently fold them into the salad for an irresistible touch of flavor.
8. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This will help meld the flavors together beautifully!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your refreshing cucumber feta salad as a delightful side dish. Enjoy the crisp and tangy flavors!
This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a light meal at home. Enjoy your crisp, cool, and tangy cucumber feta salad!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dressing Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using a store-bought Greek or balsamic vinaigrette can save you effort. Just be mindful of the flavors and adjust any additional salt accordingly, as store-bought dressings can sometimes be saltier.
How Long Will This Salad Last?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers might become watery, so it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes for extra crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the veggie sizes similar for even mixing!
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, but I recommend storing the dressing separately if you plan to meal prep. Combine the salad ingredients in a container and drizzle the dressing on just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp!
