Description
A refreshing Cucumber and Feta Salad that combines crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and fresh herbs, perfect for a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 long English cucumber, sliced into half moons (roughly 4 cups)
- 1 small avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/21/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/21/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/41/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Start by slicing cucumbers into thin rounds, letting their crispiness shine through. You will want to make sure they are nice and firm; that is what keeps the salad refreshing. Avoid cutting them too thick, or they might overwhelm the other flavors.
- Mix the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of garlic, letting the citrus scent brighten your kitchen. This zesty dressing ties everything together. Just be careful not to add too much garlic if you prefer a milder note.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gently toss the cucumbers with crumbled feta in a bowl, ensuring the feta is evenly mixed. The creamy feta should cradle the cucumbers without clumping together. Remember to be gentle to keep the cucumber slices intact.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in some chopped parsley and dill, watching the vibrant green contrast with the cucumber. The herbs not only add a pop of color but also bring in fresh flavors. Do not skip this step; it really lifts the salad!
- Dress Just Before Serving: Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before you are ready to enjoy it. This keeps everything crisp and prevents sogginess. If you dress it too early, you might end up with a watery salad.
- Taste & Adjust: Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe a dash more salt or a little more lemon? This personal touch makes all the difference. Just do not go overboard, as the feta brings its own saltiness.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover salad in an air-tight container in the fridge for 1 to 2 days. If you want to avoid browning in avocados, a sprinkle of lemon juice helps keep them fresh.
- Expert Tips: If you are worried about soggy salad, try adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything crunchy. When using feta, crumbling it into smaller pieces can help it mix evenly throughout the salad. If the garlic flavor seems too strong, reducing the amount used or switching to garlic powder can create a milder taste. Consider incorporating leftover vegetables you have on hand; it is a great way to reduce waste!
- Reheating Instructions: Not applicable, as this is a salad served cold.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Pair with a light white wine for a refreshing meal. This salad works great as a side dish at summer barbecues.
- Recipe Variations: Add cherry tomatoes for sweetness. Incorporate diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Top with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.
- Ingredient Notes: When selecting cucumbers, look for firm, unblemished skins. For the best flavor, choose a feta cheese that is creamy but crumbly. If desired, substitute the fresh herbs with dried ones, keeping the amounts the same.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg