A Fresh Take on Cucumber Feta Salad
Hey there! If you’re like me, sometimes you just crave something light, crisp, and bursting with flavor — that’s exactly what this Cucumber Feta Salad is all about. It’s refreshing, tangy, and oh-so-simple to make. Every bite brings together crunchy cucumber, creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, and that zingy Greek lemon vinaigrette that ties it all together. Whether it’s a side for dinner, a quick lunch, or your go-to potluck salad, this one never disappoints!
Why You’ll Love It
What I love most about this salad is its effortless charm. It feels fancy but takes just minutes to prepare. The ingredients are wholesome and colorful — you can almost taste the sunshine in every bite! Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian or vegan without losing its bright Mediterranean flavor. It’s one of those dishes that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad is not only delicious but also wonderfully nourishing. Cucumbers are hydrating and packed with vitamins K and C. Feta cheese adds calcium and protein, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats. The lemon juice helps with digestion and gives your immune system a boost thanks to its vitamin C content. So yes — this salad isn’t just refreshing, it’s genuinely good for you!
Adaptable Variations
- For Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a satisfying main meal.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the feta or use vegan feta alternatives — the vinaigrette still keeps it flavorful and balanced.
- Add Some Crunch: Toss in a handful of toasted walnuts or almonds for texture and a nutty touch.
- Play With Herbs: Try mixing in fresh dill or mint along with parsley for a garden-fresh twist.
Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced or chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or dill)
- For the Greek Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the veggies: Start by slicing your cucumbers and halving the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the parsley.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine: In a large salad bowl, toss the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley together. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss until everything is coated.
- Add the feta: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Try not to overmix — you want those little chunks of feta to stay intact for creamy bites.
- Serve fresh: Chill for 10–15 minutes if you have time. It helps the flavors meld beautifully. Then serve and enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep the veggies and dressing separately a few hours in advance. Just mix them right before serving for the freshest crunch.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste before serving! Add a little more lemon juice if you prefer tangier salads, or a drizzle of honey if you want a subtle sweetness.
- Keep It Crisp: Avoid adding salt too early — it draws out water from cucumbers and can make your salad soggy. Salt it right before serving.
- Pair It Right: This salad goes perfectly with grilled fish, chicken souvlaki, or even a warm slice of pita bread and hummus on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes? Absolutely! Just dice them into bite-sized chunks. Roma or heirloom tomatoes work beautifully.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes — but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve so everything stays crisp.
- What can I use instead of feta cheese? Goat cheese or even crumbled ricotta salata are great substitutes that add similar creaminess.
- How long does it last in the fridge? It stays fresh for up to 2 days if kept in an airtight container. Just stir gently before serving again.
Call to Action
Did you try this Cucumber Feta Salad? I’d love to see your version! Snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest so we can share the freshness. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your salad board — it’s a staple you’ll keep coming back to whenever you need a light, healthy, and flavor-packed bite! 🥗💚🍋
