Cucumber feta salad

Looking for a light, refreshing salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavor? This Cucumber Feta Salad is crisp, cool, and tangy with a simple vinaigrette that ties everything together. Made with crunchy cucumbers, salty feta, red onion, and fresh herbs, it’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, picnics, or a quick healthy lunch.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crisp & Refreshing – Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want something light.
Quick & Easy – Ready in 10 minutes with minimal chopping.
Mediterranean Flavor – Bright, tangy, and full of zest.
Healthy – Low in carbs, gluten-free, and packed with veggies.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Even better after the flavors meld in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
2 large cucumbers (English or Persian), thinly sliced or diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh dill or parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
½ avocado, diced (optional for creaminess)

For the Vinaigrette:
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy twist)
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need
Cutting board and knife
Mixing bowl
Whisk or jar with lid (for vinaigrette)
Mandoline slicer (optional for thin cucumber slices)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and slice or dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. If using, halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the avocado.
4. Chop fresh herbs and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
7. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, feta, tomatoes (if using), and herbs.
8. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
9. Add diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Step 4: Chill & Serve
10. For best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with extra herbs or feta if desired and serve cold.

Tips for Perfect Cucumber Feta Salad
Use Seedless Cucumbers – English or Persian cucumbers work best for crunch and less water.
Salt to Taste – Feta adds saltiness, so adjust dressing salt accordingly.
Add Crunch – Toss in toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for texture.
Make It a Meal – Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for a protein boost.

Serving Suggestions
With Grilled Chicken or Fish – Complements smoky flavors perfectly.
Alongside Hummus and Pita – Create a Mediterranean mezze plate.
As a Light Lunch – Add to greens or wrap in a pita for a refreshing meal.
With Falafel or Kofta – A cool, tangy counterbalance to spiced dishes.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Avocado Tip: Add fresh just before serving to avoid browning.

Reheating:
Not needed – Serve this salad cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes! Just omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
2. Is this salad keto-friendly?
   Absolutely – it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
3. Can I use dried herbs?
   Fresh is best, but if needed, use 1 tsp dried dill or parsley.
4. What’s the best vinegar substitute?
   Lemon juice gives a great citrus twist if you don’t have red wine vinegar.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Feta Salad is the ultimate easy and elegant side dish—perfectly crisp, tangy, and bursting with herbaceous flavor. Whether you serve it with grilled mains, as part of a picnic, or enjoy it solo, this salad is always a hit. Light, fresh, and endlessly customizable, it’s one you’ll make again and again.

Try it today and share your twist online! Don’t forget to tag your version on Pinterest or in the comments below.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes (optional)
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 160 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 270mg

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