Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts refreshing, savory, and satisfying, look no further than this Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe. Every forkful delivers crisp cucumber, creamy feta, and sweet bell pepper dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette—a combination so irresistible, you’ll want to make this salad all summer long. Whether as a quick lunch, picnic staple, or colorful side for a Mediterranean feast, this salad proves that simple ingredients can yield magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to a crave-worthy salad lies in thoughtfully chosen essentials. Each ingredient in this Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe brings something special—crunch, a pop of color, or layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

• English cucumbers: Their thin skin means no peeling required, and they add unbeatable crunch and juiciness.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a gentle bite and a beautiful hint of purple in every serving.
• Bell pepper (any color): Sliced into strips, bell pepper offers natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of color.
• Feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta pulls everything together with its bold, briny flavor—feel free to add extra if you’re a cheese lover.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Not just the base of your dressing; it gives the salad a velvety finish.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds a gentle tanginess and a touch of richness that balances the sweet veggies perfectly.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of citrus brings brightness and livens up every bite.
• Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors—adjust to your own taste.
• Black pepper: A tiny dash offers subtle heat and depth.

How to Make Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Dressing

Start by making your dressing so those bold flavors have a moment to mingle. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the salt is fully dissolved and everything looks glossy—you want every drop to taste bright and balanced.

Step 2: Slice Your Veggies

Now for the fun part! Slice the English cucumbers into rings—leave the skin on for maximum crunch and color. Thinly slice the red onion (a mandoline makes quick work if you have one), and cut your bell pepper into cheerful strips. Toss all the veggies into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Dress and Add the Feta

Just before you’re ready to serve, give the balsamic dressing another quick whisk, then drizzle it evenly over your bowl of veggies. Sprinkle the feta cheese right on top. The cheese will soften slightly as it meets the vinaigrette, creating little creamy pockets in the salad.

Step 4: Toss and Taste

Using salad tongs or clean hands, very gently toss everything together. You want each bite to hold a bit of everything, but be careful not to break up the feta too much. Taste and adjust the salt if needed, and serve up the Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe while it’s still crisp and cold.

How to Serve Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, consider a scattering of fresh herbs like chopped dill, mint, or parsley. A pinch of cracked black pepper or an extra sprinkle of crumbled feta makes each plate look and taste even more special.

Side Dishes

This Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe is endlessly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or falafel for a light lunch. For a picnic or potluck, pair it with flatbreads and a bowl of hummus—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the salad in mason jars for a portable lunch, or heap it onto toasted baguette slices for a gorgeous appetizer. Arrange it in a wide, shallow bowl and top with edible flowers for an extra colorful tablescape.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a day or two, as the cucumbers start to give up their crunch after sitting with the dressing.

Freezing

This salad isn’t a good candidate for the freezer—the cucumbers and feta don’t hold up well to thawing, turning watery and mushy instead of crisp and vibrant. Stick to fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this salad—Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe is meant to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature, making it an effortless dish for anytime snacking or entertaining.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Absolutely! Just peel them if the skin is thick or waxy, and scoop out large seeds to prevent watering down your salad.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta?

Yes! Look for plant-based feta at the grocery store or substitute with diced avocado for a creamy, dairy-free twist in your Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can slice the vegetables and mix the dressing up to a day ahead. Combine everything just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to toss in halved cherry tomatoes, sliced radishes, or even Kalamata olives for more Mediterranean flair—or use what you have on hand!

Does the salad keep well for meal prep?

Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe is perfect for meal prep if you keep the dressing separate and add feta just before eating. This way, the vegetables don’t lose their crunch, and the cheese stays creamy.

Final Thoughts

Give this Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe a try the next time you crave something crisp, bright, and ridiculously easy. I promise it’ll earn a permanent spot on your go-to recipe list—and might just become the salad everyone asks you to bring to the party!

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