Fresh and Flavorful Cucumber Feta Salad

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Cucumber Feta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for any meal. Combining the crunch of fresh cucumbers with the creamy tanginess of feta cheese, this salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s an ideal side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it quick and easy to prepare, while the flavors are bold and satisfying. Fresh herbs add an aromatic touch, making this salad not just delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy addition to your meal or a stand-alone dish, this Cucumber Feta Salad is a versatile and tasty option.

One of the great things about this salad is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Adding tomatoes, olives, or red onions can bring a new dimension to the dish. The key is in the freshness of the ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. This salad is also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, offering a nutritious and delicious option that even picky eaters will love.

Perfect for warm weather, this salad is light and cooling, making it a go-to recipe during the summer months. However, its deliciousness transcends seasons, and it can be enjoyed year-round. Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or even enjoy it on its own. The Cucumber Feta Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and satisfying.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe 

There are many reasons to fall in love with making Cucumber Feta Salad. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare. With minimal chopping and no cooking required, you can have a fresh and delicious salad ready in just a few minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal on the table fast.

Another reason to love this recipe is its health benefits. Cucumbers are low in calories but high in important vitamins and minerals. They provide a hydrating boost due to their high water content, making them great for keeping you refreshed. Feta cheese, on the other hand, adds a rich, creamy texture while still being relatively low in calories compared to other cheeses. It’s also a good source of calcium and protein, contributing to a balanced diet.

The versatility of this salad is another appealing aspect. You can enjoy it as a side dish with a variety of main courses, such as grilled chicken, fish, or even as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread. It can also be a light lunch or a refreshing addition to your brunch menu. The combination of cucumbers and feta cheese with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing creates a burst of flavors that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Lastly, the Cucumber Feta Salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its bright colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, and its delicious taste is sure to impress guests at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or bringing a dish to a potluck, this salad is always a hit. Its simple yet flavorful nature makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

 

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions & Instructions 

  1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing and thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a mandoline for even slices or a sharp knife. Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the Onions: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers.
  3. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Chop the fresh dill and parsley. Add them to the bowl, mixing them with the cucumbers and onions.
  4. Add Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta cheese and sprinkle it over the salad mixture.
  5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine. Ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
  7. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
  8. Enjoy: Serve the Cucumber Feta Salad chilled, either as a side dish or on its own.

Nutritional Information 

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g

Variations

  • Add Tomatoes: For a burst of color and flavor, add halved cherry tomatoes.
  • Olives: Mix in some sliced Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Different Herbs: Substitute basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a bit of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.

Can I use different types of cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well in this recipe and provide a slightly different texture.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some of their crispness over time.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or a mild blue cheese as an alternative.

Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese make a big difference in flavor.
  • Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a bit before serving helps the flavors meld together.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cucumber Feta Salad as a side dish to grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb. It also pairs well with fish or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch. For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve it alongside hummus, pita bread, and a selection of olives.