Cucumber Feta Salad

This refreshing cucumber feta salad transforms basic ingredients into a vibrant Mediterranean dish that perfectly balances crisp vegetables with creamy cheese. I discovered this recipe during a particularly hot summer and it quickly became my go-to side for everything from backyard barbecues to quick lunches.

I first made this salad for a family gathering when temperatures hit triple digits, and it was the first dish to disappear. Since then, my mother-in-law requests I bring it to every summer potluck.

Ingredients

• Fresh cucumbers: Essential for the crisp foundation choose firm ones without soft spots
• Red onion: Adds a pleasant bite and beautiful color contrast look for ones with tight, papery skin
• Fresh dill: Brings distinctive herbal notes that pair perfectly with cucumber use only the feathery fronds
• Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and subtle earthiness Italian flat-leaf variety offers best flavor
• Feta cheese: Provides creamy saltiness traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk gives authentic flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing select a good quality one with fruity notes
• Lemon juice: Balances the richness with acidity fresh-squeezed makes a noticeable difference
• Salt and pepper: Enhance all other flavors sea salt works particularly well here

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Fresh Vegetables:

Slice cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thickness. Cut red onion into paper-thin slices to ensure they don't overpower. Place both in a large bowl along with freshly chopped dill and parsley. The herbs should be chopped just before adding to preserve their aromatic oils.

Add The Feta:

Crumble the feta cheese by hand rather than buying pre-crumbled for better texture and flavor. Sprinkle it over the vegetables and herbs. Folding it in gently preserves the cheese's integrity and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Create The Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes slightly emulsified and takes on a cloudy appearance. This creates a perfect coating for the vegetables.

Final Assembly:

Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and toss with a light hand to ensure all ingredients are coated without bruising the delicate cucumbers. Allow the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the salt to draw out some moisture from the cucumbers and onions while the flavors meld together.

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The feta cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. When I visited Greece years ago, I learned that authentic Greek salads let the feta shine as a star ingredient, not just a garnish. This memory guides me whenever I make this dish, reminding me to be generous with both the quantity and quality of cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, but I recommend adding the dressing no more than 2 hours before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after the ingredients have time to mingle, making this an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining. If making well ahead, consider slicing the cucumbers slightly thicker to maintain their crunch longer.

Variations Worth Trying

Mediterranean Version: Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired twist. The olives add a wonderful briny contrast to the cool cucumbers.

Creamy Adaptation: Mix 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamier texture that still maintains the refreshing quality. This variation works beautifully as a side for spicy dishes.

Grain Bowl: Transform this into a complete meal by adding cooked quinoa or farro. The grains soak up the dressing beautifully while adding protein and making the salad more substantial for lunch or a light dinner.

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber feta salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, particularly lamb or chicken with Mediterranean spices. It also makes a wonderful side to rich dishes like moussaka or pastitsio, where its brightness cuts through heavier flavors. For a simple summer lunch, serve it alongside warm pita bread and hummus.

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This salad perfectly balances refreshing crispness with creamy indulgence—making it the ideal dish for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use another cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar tangy flavor.

→ How do I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?

Sprinkle the cucumber slices with a bit of salt beforehand and let them sit for 10 minutes. Then pat dry before mixing.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the salad and dressing separately. Combine and toss them together right before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What herbs can I use if I don't have dill or parsley?

You can use fresh mint or basil as alternative herbs to add a unique flavor to the salad.

→ What can I pair this salad with?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or even grain dishes like quinoa or couscous.