Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that brightens up any meal, this Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is just the ticket! This delightful salad combines crisp cucumbers and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I need something quick yet delicious, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What’s truly special about this recipe is its vibrant flavors and how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or enjoying it on its own, this salad never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a fresh salad ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the crunch of cucumbers and the flavor of feta!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a bit, making it great for meal prep.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a light lunch on its own.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh ingredients, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette features simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Salad

• 4 large organic Persian cucumbers (sliced)
• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup feta cheese (blocks or crumbled)
• ½ tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ¼ cup kalamata olives (sliced)

For the Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or 2-3 lemons)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Variations

One of the best parts about this salad is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on what you have available or your personal tastes!

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Make it heartier: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to transform this side dish into a filling main course.
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your style, try crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative!
• Spice it up: Include diced bell peppers or jalapeños if you like a little heat in your salad.

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by slicing those Persian cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. The thinner they are, the more they soak up that delicious vinaigrette! Next, thinly slice the red onion. This will add a nice sharpness that balances well with the creamy feta.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This vinaigrette is super simple but adds so much flavor! Whisking helps emulsify the oil and lemon juice together so they blend nicely.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, fresh dill, and parsley. If you’re adding them in, toss in those halved cherry tomatoes and sliced kalamata olives too! Drizzle the vinaigrette over everything and gently toss until everything is coated evenly.

Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit

You can serve your salad immediately for a refreshing crunch! Alternatively, if you let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving, all those flavors will meld beautifully together. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect Cucumber Feta Salad is a breeze, and these tips will take your dish to the next level!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Opt for organic Persian cucumbers and fresh herbs for the best flavor. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also enhances the overall quality of your salad.
• Let It Marinate – If you have a little extra time, letting the salad sit for 10-20 minutes before serving allows the ingredients to mingle and the flavors to deepen. This step can elevate your salad from good to exceptional!
• Customize Your Cheese – Feel free to use different types of cheese if feta isn’t your favorite. For example, crumbled goat cheese or a tangy vegan feta can add unique flavors while keeping it delightful.
• Experiment with Add-Ins – Don’t hesitate to throw in other ingredients like bell peppers or avocado for added texture and nutrition. This flexibility lets you tailor the salad to your taste preferences.
• Adjust the Dressing – If you love a zesty kick, increase the lemon juice or add a splash of red wine vinegar. Adjusting the dressing can make it just right for your palate!

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Serving this refreshing salad is as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present your Cucumber Feta Salad that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill sprigs – A few sprigs on top not only look stunning but also enhance the herby flavors of the salad.
• Lemon wedges – Serving lemon wedges alongside adds an eye-catching touch and gives guests the option for extra zest.
• Chopped nuts – A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a satisfying crunch and additional flavor complexity.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers complement the freshness of the salad beautifully, adding a protein-rich option that’s perfect for a light meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with the Mediterranean flavors in your salad.
• Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables bring warmth and earthiness that balance out the freshness of the cucumber feta salad wonderfully.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every bite of your delightful Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
• If possible, keep the vinaigrette separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of cucumbers and feta may change after thawing.
• Instead, prepare just what you need for meals to minimize waste.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it!
• Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge or allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad several hours in advance. Just keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute if I can’t find feta cheese?

If feta cheese isn’t available, a good alternative would be crumbled goat cheese or a vegan feta alternative. Both will add a delightful creaminess.

How long does Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you want your cucumbers to remain crunchy!

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for anyone avoiding gluten in their diet.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey! The Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to whip up. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while adding brightness to your meals. I hope you find joy in making this dish and savor every bite. Happy cooking!