This refreshing cucumber feta salad is perfect for a hot day! It combines crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing. So bright and tasty!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! It’s a great side dish for any meal, or you can snack on it all day. Bring on the summer vibes! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use fresh, crisp cucumbers—English or Persian varieties work great. If you can’t find these, regular cucumbers will do. Just remove the seeds if they’re large.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty, creamy touch. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use crumbled tofu mixed with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
Red Onion: This adds a bit of zing, but if red onion is too strong for your taste, try using green onions or leave it out altogether.
Olive Oil: This is the base of the dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace some of the oil with more lemon juice.
How Can I Make The Dressing Better?
The dressing is key to bringing this salad to life! Start by whisking the lemon juice and olive oil together in a small bowl. It’s essential to use fresh lemon juice—bottled juice lacks that bright flavor. Here’s how to elevate it:
- Add zest from the lemon to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh herbs like dill or mint can brighten the dressing even more!
Mix until well combined and adjust seasoning to your taste. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Fresh Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, plus an additional 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Begin by taking a large bowl and adding the thinly sliced cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, optional red onion, and chopped parsley. Mix them gently with a spoon to combine all the ingredients evenly.
2. Make the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and the dressing is smooth.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything gently to make sure the cucumbers and feta are well coated with the dressing. This’ll give each bite a burst of flavor!
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, stir the salad once more before serving. You can garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta on top if you’d like. Enjoy this tasty and refreshing salad cold!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or queso fresco for a similar texture and flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the feta cheese with crumbled tofu or a vegan feta cheese alternative. You can also add some sunflower seeds or chickpeas for extra protein!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh for optimal crunchiness!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dressing if you add a lot of extra veggies!
