Name: Cucumber Feta Salad: 7 Quick Tips
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cucumber Feta Salad has become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners and potluck contributions alike. I first tried making this salad on a sweltering summer afternoon, desperate for something light and flavorful that wouldn’t heat up the kitchen. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, salty feta, and bright, zesty dressing was an instant hit! It’s so simple to assemble, and the aroma of fresh herbs and lemon is just heavenly. You’ll soon discover how to make cucumber feta salad is incredibly rewarding. This truly is a wonderfully refreshing cucumber feta salad that tastes like sunshine in a bowl. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Feta Salad

Incredible Taste: A perfect balance of cool, crisp cucumber with salty feta and a bright lemon dressing.
Super Quick Prep: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Healthy & Light: Packed with fresh vegetables and satisfying protein, it’s a wholesome choice.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, readily available ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Family Favorite: This easy feta cucumber salad is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a light lunch.
Effortlessly Delicious: This easy feta cucumber salad proves healthy food can be incredibly flavorful.

Cucumber Feta Salad Ingredients

Gathering the right cucumber feta salad ingredients is key to this simple yet delicious dish. The star of the show, of course, is the cucumber, which provides that essential cool crunch. I like to use two large cucumbers, peeled and diced for a pleasant texture. Alongside that, we have one thinly sliced red onion, which adds a nice bite and vibrant color. The salty, creamy feta cheese is what truly brings this salad together; I use about 8 ounces, crumbled. For a Mediterranean flair, half a cup of pitted and halved Kalamata olives adds a briny depth. Fresh herbs are crucial for aroma and taste, so I always include a quarter cup each of chopped fresh mint and parsley. The dressing is a simple yet zesty mix of 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, one minced garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking!

Cucumber Feta Salad: 7 Quick Tips - Fresh ingredients for a refreshing cucumber feta salad

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad

Let’s get started on what I consider the best way to make cucumber feta salad! It’s so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this refreshing dish comes together. The key is to combine the fresh ingredients first, letting their textures and flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and halved Kalamata olives. You’ll immediately notice the vibrant colors starting to pop!
Step 2: Add the freshly chopped mint and parsley to the bowl. The aroma of these herbs is just incredible and really elevates the salad.
Step 3: Now, let’s whip up that simple, zesty dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano until well combined. This creates a wonderfully bright vinaigrette.
Step 4: Pour this delicious dressing evenly over the cucumber and feta mixture. This is the moment the salad truly comes alive.
Step 5: Gently toss everything together with a large spoon or tongs until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, you want to maintain that lovely crunch from the cucumbers. This gentle approach is part of the best way to make cucumber feta salad.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Start with a little, as the feta and olives already provide a good amount of saltiness, and then adjust as needed.
Step 7: For the absolute best flavor, I highly recommend refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly. It’s optional, but it really takes this cucumber feta salad to the next level. This patience is key to the best way to make cucumber feta salad.
Step 8: Serve your chilled, delightful cucumber feta salad and enjoy that burst of fresh, Mediterranean flavor!

Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Feta Salad

I’ve made this salad countless times, and a few little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Here are my top tips for achieving salad perfection:

Always use block feta cheese packed in brine; it has a creamier texture and better flavor than pre-crumbled varieties.
Don’t skip the fresh herbs! Mint and parsley are fantastic, but feel free to experiment with dill or chives.
Taste and adjust your dressing before tossing. The saltiness of feta can vary, so a little extra lemon or pepper might be needed.
For an even more vibrant dish, consider adding a few cherry tomatoes, halved, to the mix. Cherry tomatoes are a great addition.

What’s the secret to perfect Cucumber Feta Salad?

The secret to the best cucumber feta salad lies in the quality of your ingredients and a few simple techniques. Using block feta in brine and fresh herbs makes a huge difference. Also, allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully. For more information on the benefits of fresh ingredients, check out vegetable gardening.

Can I make Cucumber Feta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chopped vegetables and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and prevent the herbs from wilting in this delicious cucumber and feta cheese salad.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cucumber Feta Salad?

A common pitfall is using pre-crumbled feta, which can be dry and less flavorful. Another mistake is over-dressing the salad; start with less dressing and add more if needed. Finally, be gentle when tossing to keep your cucumbers perfectly crisp.

Cucumber Feta Salad: 7 Quick Tips - A close-up of the refreshing cucumber feta salad

Best Ways to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad

This versatile salad is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness that complements a variety of dishes. When I’m planning what to serve with cucumber feta salad, I often think about pairing it with heartier mains. It’s wonderful alongside grilled fish or chicken, cutting through the richness with its bright flavors. For a true Mediterranean feast, serve it as part of a mezze platter with hummus, pita bread, and falafel. It also makes an excellent side dish for barbecues or picnics, adding a light and cooling element to heavier fare like burgers or ribs. This salad truly elevates any table.

Nutrition Facts for Cucumber Feta Salad

This refreshing salad is not only delicious but also a healthy cucumber feta salad option. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cucumber Feta Salad

Properly storing your delicious cucumber feta salad ensures it stays fresh and flavorful, even when made ahead. Once you’ve finished enjoying this delightful cucumber feta salad side dish, let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. I find that glass containers work best for salads like this, as they don’t retain odors. You can comfortably store this salad in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Unfortunately, due to the fresh cucumbers and feta, this salad doesn’t freeze well, so I don’t recommend putting it in the freezer for longer than a few hours if you need to chill it very quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Feta Salad

Can I add other vegetables to my Cucumber Feta Salad?

Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile. I love adding chopped bell peppers for a little crunch, or some cherry tomatoes, halved, for a burst of sweetness. Some people even add thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick. Feel free to get creative with your favorite fresh veggies!

What kind of feta cheese is best for this salad?

For the absolute best flavor and texture in your Greek cucumber feta salad, I highly recommend using block feta cheese that’s packed in brine. It’s typically made from sheep’s milk and has a creamy, tangy taste that crumbles beautifully. Pre-crumbled feta can sometimes be drier and less flavorful, so it’s worth the extra step to crumble your own.

How do I make this salad taste more like a Greek cucumber feta salad?

To really lean into that authentic Greek cucumber feta salad vibe, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano to the dressing, as I’ve suggested, or even a touch of fresh dill. You could also add some Kalamata olives, which are already in the recipe, and perhaps a few capers for an extra briny punch. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is always key!

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, with a simple substitution! You can easily make this a vegan delight by using a good quality vegan feta cheese alternative. There are many excellent plant-based options available now that mimic the salty, tangy flavor of traditional feta cheese. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

Variations of Cucumber Feta Salad You Can Try

This basic recipe is fantastic, but there are so many ways to customize your cucumber feta salad to suit your taste or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Add More Veggies: For a vibrant cucumber feta salad with tomatoes, toss in some halved cherry tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes. Thinly sliced bell peppers (any color!) or some chopped red onion can add extra crunch and flavor.
Herb Power: While mint and parsley are wonderful, consider adding fresh dill for a classic touch. A little fresh dill can really transform this into a distinctively flavorful salad.
Creamy Twist: Want a richer salad? Stir in a tablespoon or two of plain Greek yogurt or tahini into your dressing. This creates a delightful creamy cucumber feta salad that’s incredibly satisfying.
Mediterranean Boost: Add some marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of za’atar for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor.

Cucumber Feta Salad: 7 Quick Tips - A serving of the delicious cucumber feta salad