Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that is as delightful as it is easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings; everyone loves the crunch of cucumbers combined with creamy avocado and tangy feta.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. You can serve it alongside grilled chicken, toss it into wraps, or even enjoy it on its own as a healthy snack. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be reaching for cucumbers every time they’re in season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip up this salad in just 10 minutes—perfect for last-minute meals!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cucumber, dill, and feta creates a vibrant taste that brightens up any meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of smashed cucumbers and the mild flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is a guilt-free addition to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand or can easily find at your local market.

For the Salad

• 4 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber
• 1 medium ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

For the Dressing

• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic – peeled and minced
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add more crunch: Toss in some diced bell peppers or celery for extra texture.
• Switch up the cheese: Try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Herb swap: If dill isn’t your favorite, parsley or mint can bring a unique twist to this salad.
• Boost protein: Add some cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken slices to make it more filling.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers well. Chop each one in half. Place each half onto a cutting board and use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash them gently. This step not only makes them easier to eat but also helps them soak up all that delicious dressing! Then chop them into 1-inch pieces and place them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add the Avocado

Next, peel your avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add these creamy chunks right into the bowl with your smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado pairs beautifully with the crunchiness of the cucumbers!

Step 3: Mix in Other Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those wonderful flavors! Toss in crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives into the bowl with cucumbers and avocado. These ingredients will bring life and zest to your salad.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, combine all of your dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them well until everything is nicely emulsified. This dressing will tie all the flavors together!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Give everything a gentle toss until all ingredients are coated with that tasty dressing. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving for an extra pop of color!

Now you have a delicious Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill ready to enjoy! It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a main course on its own. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Creating the perfect smashed cucumber salad is easier than you think, especially with these handy tips!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad as they’re crisp and have fewer seeds, making each bite refreshing. If you opt for an English cucumber, make sure to peel it to enhance the texture.
• Smash with care: When smashing the cucumbers, use just enough pressure to break them but not so much that they become mush. This technique allows for a delightful crunch and better absorption of flavors.
• Let it marinate: For an even more flavorful experience, let your salad sit for about 10 minutes after tossing it with the dressing. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs: While dill and chives add a lovely touch, feel free to mix in other herbs like mint or parsley for a unique twist. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add layers of flavor.
• Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a tangier taste, add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard. Personalizing the dressing makes it uniquely yours!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Serving your smashed cucumber salad can be as creative as you want! Whether it’s a casual family meal or a chic dinner party, this salad adds a vibrant touch to any table.

Garnishes

• Extra dill or chives: A sprinkle of fresh dill or chives on top adds color and reinforces those wonderful herbal notes.
• Crushed pistachios: Adding a few extra crushed pistachios not only enhances the crunch factor but also gives a pop of color and richness.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest over the top brightens up the flavors and adds an aromatic quality that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with your favorite spices complement this salad beautifully, creating a balanced meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables provides a hearty option that’s packed with protein and fiber, making it perfect alongside this light salad.
• Roasted Vegetable Medley: A warm medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth to your meal while keeping everything healthy and colorful.
• Pita Bread with Hummus: Serve some warm pita bread alongside hummus for dipping; it’s a delightful way to scoop up any leftover salad while adding some satisfying carbs to your plate.

This smashed cucumber salad is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in many delicious ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

This smashed cucumber salad is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making it a quick, refreshing option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of cucumbers and avocado once thawed.
• Enjoy it fresh instead!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• Simply toss it again if it’s been sitting and enjoy!

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, I’ve got you covered!

Can I make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill in advance?

Absolutely! This salad can be made ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it within a few days for the best flavor.

What should I serve with Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side dish for sandwiches. Its lightness complements many main courses!

Can I substitute feta cheese in the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta. Both will add a delightful flavor to your salad.

How can I customize my Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or bell peppers to give it your own twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill brings a burst of freshness to your table! It’s not just easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that will impress anyone you share it with. Enjoy making this delightful salad, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite additions. Happy cooking!