This Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad is light, crisp, and super easy to make! With cool cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for hot days or a quick side dish.
I just love how the flavors come together! It’s my favorite way to enjoy cucumbers. Plus, you can whip it up in no time—ideal for when you want something tasty without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star. I love using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular garden cucumbers work just fine! Just peel them if the skin is too tough.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad its creamy tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using crumbled goat cheese or a plant-based feta alternative. Both add a nice flavor, though they’ll change the taste a bit.
Cherry Tomatoes: The small, sweet cherry tomatoes add bright color and flavor. You could swap them out for grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Herbs: I use parsley for freshness, but dill or mint would also spice things up! Switch them in according to your taste, or use a mix!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from This Salad?
The flavors in this salad can shine through with a few simple tricks. Make sure to give your cucumbers a good wash and slice them just before serving. If you salt them ahead of time, it draws out excess water, keeping the salad crisp.
- Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl before adding it to the salad to blend the flavors better.
- Let it sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to marinate and enhances the refreshing taste.
- Always taste a bit before serving; adjust the seasoning if needed! Sometimes a little extra lemon juice or salt can make a big difference.
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 medium cucumbers, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish to enjoy on a warm day. You can also chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them into rounds or half-moons, based on your preference. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Slice the Other Ingredients:
Next, take your cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers. Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes and toss them in as well.
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Chop the fresh parsley and add it to the salad mixture. It will provide a nice burst of flavor and color.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. These ingredients will elevate the flavor of the salad.
5. Combine:
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and coated in the dressing. Be careful not to break up the feta too much!
6. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch or place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s delicious!
This simple, vibrant salad is perfect for a light meal or as a refreshing side dish, especially on warm days. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Salad?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional, you can use crumbled goat cheese or even cubed mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based alternative, like vegan feta or even avocado for creaminess. You can also add some nuts or seeds for extra texture and protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may release water, so it’s best eaten fresh for crunchiness!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding ingredients like red onion, bell peppers, Kalamata olives, or even cooked quinoa for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to balance the additional ingredients to maintain the refreshing taste!
