Name: Cucumber Feta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

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Craving a light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful salad? Look no further! This Cucumber Feta Salad is a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, salty feta, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Inspired by the simple, wholesome flavors of the Mediterranean, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delightful side dish. Let’s dive into the magic of this easy-to-make salad!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Feta Salad

This Cucumber Feta Salad is more than just a salad; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Refreshing & Flavorful: The combination of crisp cucumbers, salty feta, and fresh herbs is simply irresistible.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Versatile: Pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or enjoyed as a light meal on its own.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences with various add-ins and substitutions.

Ingredients Needed for this Cucumber Feta Delight

Here’s what you’ll need to create this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad. Quality ingredients make all the difference!

2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced (approximately 500g)
1 red onion, thinly sliced (about 150g)
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (225g). Tip: Opt for a block of feta in brine for the best flavor and texture.
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (120ml)
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (60ml)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (60ml)
2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml). Selection Tip: Extra virgin olive oil adds the best flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml). Freshly squeezed is highly recommended!
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (2.5ml)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the freshest herbs, consider sourcing them from your local farmers’ market. You’ll notice a significant difference in aroma and taste!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Avocado Chickpea and Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Dressing – A creamy, vibrant twist for avocado lovers.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essential tools to ensure a smooth and enjoyable salad-making experience.

Large bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
Small bowl: For preparing the dressing.
Whisk: To emulsify the dressing ingredients.
Knife: For chopping the vegetables and herbs.
Cutting board: To protect your countertop while chopping.

A good quality knife makes all the difference when prepping your vegetables, ensuring clean and even cuts.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes optional chilling)
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily scaled up or down, perfect for a crowd or a solo meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cucumber Feta Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad every time!

Step 1: Combine the Salad Base

In a large bowl, gently combine the diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and halved Kalamata olives. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cucumbers crisp. The mix of salty and fresh is already starting to come together!

Step 2: Add Fresh Herbs

Add the chopped fresh mint and parsley to the bowl. These herbs add a burst of freshness that elevates the entire salad. Gently toss to distribute the herbs evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano until well combined. This dressing is the key to bringing all the flavors together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Combine and Chill (Optional)

Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is lightly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more robust flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Cucumber Feta Salad chilled and enjoy! This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for an elegant touch. The waiting is the hardest part, now enjoy the fresh flavour!

CHECK OUT: Cucumber Chickpea and Red Onion Salad with Dill – Another delightful cucumber salad with a unique twist.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to ensure your Cucumber Feta Salad is a resounding success!

Don’t overmix: Overmixing can cause the cucumbers to release too much water and become soggy.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add the most vibrant flavor to the salad.
Taste and adjust: Always taste the dressing and salad before serving and adjust seasonings to your liking.
Chill for best flavor: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious final product.

Pro Tip: For a more intense flavor, lightly toast the dried oregano in a dry pan before adding it to the dressing.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Cucumber Feta Salad? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions you can try:

Add tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness to the salad.
Substitute different herbs: Try dill, basil, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Add a touch of spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
Make it vegan: Use a vegan feta cheese alternative.

Experiment with different additions to create your perfect Cucumber Feta Salad!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cucumber Feta Salad

This Cucumber Feta Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Grilled chicken or fish: A light and refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats.
Pita bread and hummus: Create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Quinoa or couscous: Add a grain for a more substantial salad.

Consider serving this salad at your next summer barbecue or picnic!

Health Benefits

This Cucumber Feta Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits! Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while feta cheese provides calcium and protein. The herbs add antioxidants, and the olive oil contributes healthy fats. This salad is a nutritional powerhouse!

Storage & Reheating

To store your Cucumber Feta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Note that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so the salad may become slightly watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheating is not recommended, as the salad is best served chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?

To prevent the salad from becoming too watery, make sure to dice the cucumbers and red onion into relatively small pieces. You can also salt the cucumbers lightly and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture before adding them to the salad.

Can I use different types of olives?

Yes, you can use different types of olives! Kalamata olives are traditionally used in Greek salads, but you can substitute them with other varieties such as green olives or black olives, depending on your preference.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming too soggy. You can prepare the vegetables and herbs ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini to this salad. Just make sure to dice them into small pieces so they mix well with the other ingredients.

Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. If you’re following a vegan diet, you can substitute the feta cheese with a vegan alternative. It’s also suitable for people with lactose intolerance if you use lactose-free feta cheese.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 12g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more refreshing and flavorful salads? Try these other delightful recipes!

Watermelon Salad with Feta – A sweet and salty summer delight.
Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A hearty and flavorful salad packed with protein.
Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon Dressing – A vibrant and satisfying pasta salad.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Feta Salad is fast, flavorful, and incredibly refreshing. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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Cucumber Feta Salad