Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that comes together in a flash, you’ll adore this Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette. It’s a vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon dressing that pairs beautifully with just about any meal. This salad is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings with friends and family. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it a favorite on our table!

What makes this salad even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a casual BBQ, this Cucumber Feta Salad is sure to impress. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to share this recipe with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious salad ready to serve!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cucumber, feta, and lemon creates a delightful taste explosion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy cucumbers and creamy feta—it’s a hit with everyone!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for hassle-free meals throughout the week.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You probably already have some of them in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll 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 wonderful things about this salad is how flexible it is! You can easily mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some diced bell peppers or radishes for an extra crunch.
• Go nutty: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture.
• Make it heartier: Add chickpeas or quinoa to turn this salad into a filling main dish.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by slicing those crisp Persian cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Then thinly slice your red onion. This step is crucial because having uniform slices ensures that every bite has a balanced flavor.

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 dressing adds brightness to the salad and enhances all the fresh flavors wonderfully.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, dill, and parsley. If you’re using cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, add those in too! Drizzle your homemade vinaigrette over everything and gently toss it all together until well coated.

Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit

You can serve your salad immediately for that fresh crunch! Or if you have time, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette! It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen as much as it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect cucumber feta salad is all about balance and freshness, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Opt for the freshest cucumbers and herbs available. High-quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Slice Evenly – For a more appealing presentation, slice your cucumbers and onions evenly. This not only looks great but also ensures every bite has balanced flavors.
• Chill Before Serving – Allowing the salad to chill for about 10 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together, making each bite even more delightful.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Everyone’s palate is different! Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning in the vinaigrette. A little extra lemon juice or a pinch of salt can elevate your salad even further.
• Experiment with Additional Veggies – Feel free to add in other crunchy veggies like bell peppers or radishes. This can give your salad added texture and flavor variations!

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

This refreshing cucumber feta salad is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle some extra dill or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Lemon Zest – Grate some lemon zest over the top for an aromatic finish that enhances the lemon flavor in the vinaigrette.
• Toasted Nuts – Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy contrast that complements the creamy feta.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers cooked on the grill bring smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the bright flavors of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf adds a nutty flavor and serves as a fantastic base to soak up any leftover vinaigrette, making your meal satisfying.
• Hummus and Pita Bread – Creamy hummus served with warm pita is always a hit, providing a hearty dip that complements the crisp salad beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy flavors that balance well with the refreshing taste of your cucumber feta salad.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy this vibrant dish at any gathering or meal. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it come together in mere minutes, but it also holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Avoid mixing in the vinaigrette if you plan to store for later; keep it separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of cucumbers and feta may change after thawing.
• If you want to prepare components ahead, you can freeze the vinaigrette separately.

Reheating

• Refrigerated salads like this one are best enjoyed cold.
• Simply take out of the fridge and serve, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette:

Can I use other types of cucumbers for this salad?

Yes! While Persian cucumbers are preferred for their crispness and mild flavor, you can use English cucumbers or even regular garden cucumbers. Just remove the seeds if they are large.

How can I make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply replace feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative. Many brands now offer tasty dairy-free options!

What can I serve with Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a mezze platter. It’s a versatile side dish that complements many main courses!

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

When stored properly, this salad can last 3-4 days in the fridge. For optimal freshness, add dressing just before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette! It’s a refreshing addition to any meal and perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short. The combination of crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and zesty lemon dressing makes it truly special. Enjoy crafting this recipe and sharing it with loved ones—happy cooking!