This Cucumber Feta Salad is super easy and so refreshing! With crisp cucumbers, salty feta cheese, and a splash of tangy dressing, it’s perfect for hot days.
It’s a great way to enjoy veggies, and I love how quick it is to whip up. Seriously, you’ll have this on the table faster than you can say “salad”! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using large, fresh cucumbers for a crunchy texture. If you want something different, try using Persian cucumbers – they’re smaller and super crisp!
Feta Cheese: Feta is key for that salty bite. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a tofu feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharpness. If red onions are too strong for you, consider using green onions or chives, which are milder.
Dill & Mint: These herbs brighten the salad! Fresh is best, but if you only have dried, use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Honey: It balances the tanginess. For a vegan option, agave syrup works well as a substitute.
How Do I Slice Cucumbers for This Salad?
Slicing cucumbers right is important for this salad’s texture. Here’s how to do it:
- First, wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
- Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to get even slices.
- For a cute presentation, you can slice them into half-moons or rounds; either works great!
- If the cucumbers are very watery, sprinkle a bit of salt on them and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with a paper towel.
These steps will help keep your salad nice and crisp. Enjoy your refreshing cucumber feta salad!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber feta salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 15-20 minutes to chill it in the fridge before serving. That means in less than half an hour, you can have a delicious, healthy salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers to remove any dirt. Then, slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. You can peel them partially for a nice look or leave the skins on for crunch. Just make sure the slices are even for the best texture.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a big salad bowl, combine your sliced cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onion, and chopped dill. If you’re using mint, toss that in too. This mix already looks beautifully colorful!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This dressing is flavorful and will elevate your salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the big bowl. Gently toss everything together so that the dressing coats the cucumbers and feta without breaking her cucumber slices. Be gentle—it’ll keep your salad looking pretty!
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste the salad. If it needs a little more zing, add more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice until it’s just right for your taste.
6. Chill the Salad:
To really let those flavors mingle, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This step makes the salad super refreshing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it another gentle toss and serve it cold as a delightful side dish or a light lunch. Enjoy your refreshing cucumber feta salad!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or even cottage cheese for a different flavor. Just remember that these cheeses will alter the overall taste slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh dill or mint, you can use dried versions, but reduce the amount to about one-third since dried herbs have a stronger flavor. Alternatively, you can skip the herbs entirely and still enjoy a great salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more water over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even a splash of olives for extra flavor and color. Just make sure to keep balance in the dressing so the new ingredients complement the salad well!
