If you are craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with Mediterranean charm, this Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Crisp cucumber slices, sweet yet tangy bell peppers, and sharp red onion come together perfectly with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese. A simple dressing made from balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil ties all these vibrant flavors and textures together into an irresistible salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad’s magic lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the refreshing crunch, subtle acidity, and creamy tang that make this dish shine. Gathering these fresh, colorful components will set you up for salad success in just minutes.
- English Cucumbers: Sliced into crisp rings, they provide that cool, hydrating crunch that defines the salad.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for just a touch of pungency and sweetness that balances the other flavors.
- Bell Pepper: Any color works beautifully to add a sweet crunch and vibrant splash of color.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled generously for a creamy, salty contrast that elevates every bite.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Offers a rich, fruity base that brings everything together smoothly.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a subtle sweetness and tang that perks up the palate.
- Lemon Juice: Injects a bright, zesty freshness to lift all the flavors.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the tangy dressing.
- Black Pepper: Just a pinch to add gentle warmth and spice.
How to Make Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by combining the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir well until the salt fully dissolves. This dressing is the heart of your salad, marrying the crisp veggies and creamy feta with just the right touch of acidity and richness.
Step 2: Slice the Vegetables
Next, slice your cucumbers into thin, crisp rings, the red onion into paper-thin slivers, and the bell pepper into slender strips. The variety in shape and color here creates an inviting, textured salad that you’ll want to dig into immediately.
Step 3: Toss and Combine
Place all the sliced veggies into a large mixing bowl. Just before you’re ready to serve, pour the dressing over the vegetables and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Toss gently to ensure every slice is lightly coated. If you like, add a little more salt to taste to really bring out the brightness of the ingredients.
How to Serve Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as dill, mint, or parsley for a fragrant finish. These fresh herbs will add an extra dimension of flavor and a pop of green that makes the salad even more visually appealing.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a stack of warm pita bread. Its crisp, cool qualities complement hearty mains and bring balance to rich or smoky flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in a mason jar for a pretty picnic option or serve it in individual cups during a casual gathering. You can also wrap it inside soft flatbreads for a quick and refreshing lunch option that travels well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. Keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving again to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The cucumbers and feta lose texture and flavor when frozen, which takes away from the salad’s distinctive crunch and creaminess.
Reheating
This is a cold salad and does not require reheating. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta offers a perfect salty tang and crumbly texture, you can swap in goat cheese or even ricotta salata for a slightly different but still delightful twist.
How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
When stored properly without dressing, your salad will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days. Add dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
The classic version includes feta cheese, which is dairy-based, but you can easily make a vegan-friendly version by using a plant-based feta alternative or simply omitting the cheese.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even some sliced avocado make great additions without overpowering the clean, fresh vibe of the salad.
What’s the best time to make this salad?
Because it’s so quick and fresh, this salad is perfect to make right before serving. But you can prep the veggies a few hours ahead and keep them chilled until you’re ready to dress and eat.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about the simplicity and freshness of this Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe. Whether you want a quick side to brighten up dinner or a light dish to enjoy on a sunny afternoon, this salad will not disappoint. I hope you have just as much fun making and sharing it as I do!
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Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and simple cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, vibrant bell peppers, and red onions, all tossed in a tangy balsamic-lemon dressing and topped with creamy feta cheese. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 English Cucumbers, sliced into rings
- 1 small/medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced into strips
Dressing
- 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 – 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese, or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until the salt dissolves completely to create a smooth dressing.
- Slice Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers into rings, the red onion into thin strips, and the bell pepper into strips as well. Transfer all sliced vegetables into a large mixing bowl to combine.
- Toss Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled feta cheese on top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a crisper texture.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- The salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- Can be prepared ahead but add dressing and feta cheese right before serving to avoid sogginess.
