This bright and crunchy cucumber feta salad is a real treat! With fresh cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s perfect for hot days.
I love how this salad comes together so quickly. It’s a great side dish and even tasty on its own. Plus, who doesn’t love the combo of creamy feta and crisp cucumbers? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star here! For a crunchier bite, choose English cucumbers. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting with Persian cucumbers or even zucchini for a twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and herbs. For a lower-fat choice, goat cheese is a great alternative.
Red Onion: Red onion provides a mild sharpness. If raw onion is too strong for you, try using green onions instead, which are milder. For sweetness, consider caramelizing some onions before adding.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint bring freshness. If you don’t have mint, try dill for a different flavor. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch; just remember to use less since they’re more concentrated.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This sweetener balances the sour lemon juice. Feel free to omit it for a sugar-free version or use agave syrup as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Extra Refreshing?
The key to a refreshing cucumber feta salad is the preparation and chilling. Here are some tips:
- Slice the cucumbers just before mixing to keep them crisp. If you slice them too early, they can release water.
- Mix the salad gently to avoid breaking up the feta too much. You want nice chunks in the salad!
- Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together and the salad to get cold.
- Adjust the lemon juice and seasoning to your taste preference to really bring out the flavors!
Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes. Super quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Veggies:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. You can use a knife or a mandoline slicer for even slices. Once they’re sliced, place them in a large salad bowl—this is where all the magic will happen!
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and if you’re using them, the chopped mint leaves to the bowl. These ingredients will bring color and flavor to your salad.
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until everything is nicely combined. This dressing is what truly brings everything together!
4. Bringing It All Together:
Pour the lemon dressing over the cucumber and feta mixture. Using gentle hands, toss everything together to ensure that the dressing coats the cucumbers and feta evenly without breaking the feta into tiny pieces.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a little taste of your salad and see if it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Everyone’s taste is different, so adjust it to your liking!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad extra refreshing. When ready to serve, bring it out, give it a gentle stir, and enjoy it as a delightful side dish or light lunch!
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing cucumber feta salad! Perfect for warm days or any time you need a light treat!
FAQs about Refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have feta or prefer a different flavor, you can use crumbled goat cheese or even vegan feta for a dairy-free option. Both will still provide a creamy texture to the salad.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. If you’re looking for no added sugars, simply omit the sweetener altogether; the salad will still taste great with the lemon and olive oil!
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the cucumbers may release more water as they sit, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even olives for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies!
