This Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad is a light and tasty treat perfect for hot days! Crisp cucumbers and salty feta cheese come together with a splash of lemon for extra zing.
Every bite feels like summer! I love to serve it on picnics or alongside grilled meals. You can even sneak in some extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad. I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, garden cucumbers will work too! Just peel if you prefer a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using reduced-fat feta or even goat cheese for a different taste. Cheese lovers might like to add more crumbles on top!
Fresh Herbs: Dill is a must for this recipe. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley can be a great alternative. Mint is optional but absolutely freshens up the salad, so I highly recommend trying it if you have some!
Citrus: Fresh lemon juice brightens everything up. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice works as a great substitute. Just keep the flavor in mind when adjusting seasoning.
How Can I Make Sure the Salad Stays Crisp?
Keeping your cucumbers crisp is key to a great salad! Here are some tips:
- Choose firm, unblemished cucumbers and slice them just before serving.
- To reduce moisture, sprinkle a little salt on the cucumber slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess water. Just remember to rinse and pat them dry.
- Chill the salad in the fridge to enhance the refreshing taste right before serving.
Enjoy these tips to ensure your salad is crunchy and delightful every time!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe
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
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad can be made in about 15 minutes. You’ll spend some time slicing and mixing, and then just 15-30 minutes chilling it in the fridge before serving. Perfect for a quick and healthy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing and thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can decide to peel them or not—keeping the skin on gives a more colorful presentation and some added crunch!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cucumber slices, crumbled feta cheese, and the thinly sliced red onion. Get a good mix going!
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped fresh dill and the mint leaves if you’re using them. These herbs add a burst of freshness that really enhances the dish.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and red wine vinegar (if you choose to use it). This dressing is simple but elevates the flavors beautifully!
5. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss it all together. Make sure everything is coated well but try not to break up the feta too much.
6. Season and Chill:
Season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to be cautious with salt since feta can be quite salty. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to let those lovely flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle toss. Serve it cold as a delightful side dish, and enjoy your refreshing cucumber feta salad!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Use Different Herbs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While dill is a classic choice, you can swap it for fresh parsley or basil if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately ahead of time. Just mix them together right before serving for the freshest taste. You can store the salad in the fridge for up to a day, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours for maximum crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 days. Just stir gently before serving again, as the cucumbers may release some water over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Olives would also add a nice briny touch. Experiment and have fun with it!
