This fresh Greek cucumber salad is a crisp and tasty treat! With juicy cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Honestly, I can eat this salad for days! The mix of flavors really pops, especially on hot summer days. Pair it with some pita bread, and you’ve got a winning combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I suggest using English or Persian cucumbers. They’re crisp and have fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads. If these aren’t available, regular cucumbers will work too—just slice them thin for a similar texture.
Feta Cheese: The creamy crumbles of feta add a lovely tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can try using vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether and add a pinch of salt for flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint make this salad pop! If fresh herbs aren’t accessible, dried herbs can be used in lesser amounts, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Red Onion: The slight sharpness of red onion brightens the salad. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using green onions or shallots, or even soaking the red onion slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
How Do I Prepare the Dressing to Maximize Flavor?
The dressing is key to bringing all the ingredients together! Here’s a simple method:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and minced garlic.
- Add in a pinch of salt and pepper. This enhances the flavors right from the start.
- Whisk until the dressing is well blended. A good mix helps the flavors of the garlic and acidity coat the salad better.
I love to taste the dressing before pouring it over the salad. This way, you can fine-tune the seasoning to suit your taste!
Letting the salad sit for a bit before serving helps the flavors mingle. Just 20–30 minutes in the fridge will enhance the taste, but it’s still great if enjoyed right away.
Fresh Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for extra color and flavor)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Kalamata olives (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 20–30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. The chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by rinsing the cucumbers under cold water. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even pieces. If you’d like, peel the cucumbers partially or leave the skin on for extra crunch. Set the slices aside.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes (if you’re using them), and the sliced red onion. Stir everything together gently so the ingredients are mixed but not squished.
3. Add the Feta and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, dill, and mint over the vegetables. These fresh herbs bring the salad to life!
4. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, pour in the olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice). Add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk it all together until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
5. Combine the Dressing and Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to break the feta too much. You want all the flavors to be coated evenly!
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Now it’s time to taste your salad. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if you think it needs a little more zing. Adjust it to your liking!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some Kalamata olives on top for a bit of extra flavor. You can serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Greek cucumber salad!
FAQ: Fresh Greek Cucumber Salad with Feta and Herbs
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their crisp texture and fewer seeds, you can use regular cucumbers as well. Just slice them thinly to ensure they’re tender and easy to enjoy in the salad.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release water, so the salad might become a bit soggy. Give it a good stir before eating!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing closer to serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. If you need to, mix the salad without the dressing and let it chill in the fridge, then add the dressing just before serving!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the salad! You can add bell peppers for crunch, or even chickpeas for protein. Avocado, radishes, or zucchini can be great additions too! Just keep in mind to adjust your seasonings to match the new ingredients.
