Easy Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe

Cucumber Feta Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish known for its fresh ingredients. It typically includes cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. The salad is tossed with olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a light, healthy, and satisfying option for any meal.

This salad can be prepared in about 10 minutes, making it an ideal dish for quick meals. Whether you’re preparing it as a side for dinner or a midday snack, it’s ready to serve in no time. It can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for extra freshness.

The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the saltiness of the feta cheese creates a satisfying contrast. The Mediterranean flavors blend beautifully, and the simple dressing enhances the dish without overpowering the ingredients. This salad is a favorite for gatherings and always receives compliments for its vibrant colors and flavors. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or paired with grilled meats for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Feta Salad

• Quick and Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cucumber feta salad comes together in minutes. It’s a fuss-free recipe that anyone can prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you need a fast, healthy meal.
• Packed with Flavor: The tangy feta cheese and fresh cucumbers create a delightful contrast of flavors. With a zesty dressing to tie it all together, every bite is bursting with taste that will make you crave more.
• Healthy and Nutritious: This salad is a great source of vitamins and nutrients. With cucumbers offering hydration and feta providing protein, it’s a guilt-free dish that supports your health while satisfying your taste buds.

Ingredient Notes for a Cucumber Feta Salad

• Cucumbers: Fresh and crisp, cucumbers add a cool crunch to the salad. Choose firm, unblemished cucumbers for the best texture. If preferred, you can peel them for a milder taste.
• Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty, creamy element to the salad. Opt for block feta and crumble it yourself for better texture and flavor. You can use goat or sheep’s milk feta for a richer taste.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, providing a burst of flavor. Halve them to make them easier to eat and to release their juices into the salad.
• Red Onion: Red onions add a mild sharpness and a pop of color. Slice them thinly to ensure they blend well with the other ingredients without overpowering the dish.
• Kalamata Olives: Kalamata olives offer a tangy and briny flavor, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe of the salad. Remove pits before adding them to the mix.
• Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil ties the salad together. Its smooth, slightly fruity flavor balances the saltiness of the feta and olives. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar provides acidity, brightening up the entire salad. It cuts through the richness of the cheese and olive oil, giving the salad a refreshing finish.
• Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is a classic Mediterranean herb. It adds a slightly earthy, peppery flavor that complements the fresh veggies and tangy feta.
• Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a mild heat. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a light, herbal flavor. It also balances the richness of the other ingredients, giving the salad a fresh, clean finish.

Cucumber Feta Salad Variation

While the basic Cucumber Feta Salad is delicious on its own, there are several ways to vary the recipe for different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add protein: You can make the salad more filling by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Different cheeses: Swap feta for goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor.
• Extra crunch: Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for a bit of crunch.

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad

The Cucumber Feta Salad can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a side dish: It’s perfect next to grilled meats like chicken, steak, or lamb.
• With bread: Serve the salad with pita bread or a crusty baguette for a more complete meal.
• On its own: If you’re looking for a light and healthy meal, enjoy the salad on its own with a refreshing drink.
• In a wrap: Roll the salad up in a flatbread or tortilla for a simple and easy lunch.

Storage Options

If you have leftover Cucumber Feta Salad, it’s easy to store for later use. However, to keep it fresh, follow these tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will lose some of their crunch, but the flavor will still be great.
• Separate the dressing: If you know you’ll have leftovers, it’s a good idea to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. This helps the cucumbers stay crisp.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad. The texture of cucumbers and feta doesn’t hold up well to freezing.

FAQs About Cucumber Feta Salad

How long can I store cucumber feta salad?
Cucumber feta salad is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I make cucumber feta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. This helps prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.

Is cucumber feta salad healthy?
Yes, cucumber feta salad is a healthy dish that is low in calories and packed with vitamins. It also contains healthy fats from olive oil and protein from feta cheese.

What can I serve with cucumber feta salad?
Cucumber feta salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a side dish to pasta. It also makes a great addition to a Mediterranean-style meal.