Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing and easy side dish that brightens up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s not just delicious; it’s the kind of recipe that brings smiles to the table, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering. The crisp texture of the cucumbers combined with the creamy feta and zesty lemon dressing makes every bite a delight.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can whip it up in minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch all on its own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this salad ready in just 10 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for last-minute meals.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of cucumbers, feta, and lemon creates a refreshing taste that is simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the colorful ingredients and tasty dressing.
• Make-Ahead Option: This salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as part of your weekly meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. These ingredients come together to create a vibrant dish that’s bursting with flavor!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
• Change Up the Herbs: Swap dill for mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Add Crunch: Throw in some chopped bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by slicing your Persian cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Thinly slice the red onion as well. Slicing them thinly helps to release their flavors and makes them easier to mix into the salad.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This vinaigrette is quick to make but packed with flavor! The acidity from the lemon perfectly balances out the creaminess of the feta.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your sliced cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, dill, and parsley. If you’re using cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, add them now too. Drizzle with your homemade vinaigrette and toss gently until everything is coated well. This step is key to ensuring every bite is flavorful!

Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit

You can serve this salad immediately if you’re ready to eat! However, letting it sit for about 10 minutes allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Making a delicious Cucumber Feta Salad is a breeze, especially with these handy tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Opt for organic Persian cucumbers and fresh herbs. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor and freshness of your salad.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and makes it extra refreshing, especially on hot days.
• Customize your feta – If you’re using block feta, crumble it just before adding to the salad. This helps maintain its texture and ensures maximum creaminess without becoming too soggy.
• Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes, or even some chickpeas for added protein. This gives you a chance to personalize the salad according to your taste preferences.
• Make extra vinaigrette – Prepare a double batch of the lemon Greek vinaigrette and store it in the fridge. It’s a versatile dressing that works wonderfully on almost any salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Presenting your Cucumber Feta Salad beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or dill on top for a vibrant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Lemon wedges – Adding lemon wedges alongside the salad not only looks beautiful but allows guests to add extra zing if they desire.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables – A medley of seasonal grilled vegetables complements this salad beautifully, adding smoky flavors that balance the freshness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf with herbs and lemon makes for a hearty side that pairs nicely with the tangy notes of the feta salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips – Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips creates a delightful contrast in texture while keeping in line with Mediterranean flavors.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas) – These flavorful bites filled with rice, herbs, and spices provide an authentic Mediterranean touch that rounds out your meal perfectly.

Enjoy preparing this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette as part of your next meal! Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the texture of cucumbers and feta after thawing.
• Instead, prepare the salad fresh or store ingredients separately for easy assembly later.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
• Simply toss the salad again before serving if it has been sitting in the fridge.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes! While feta adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative for a different twist on this Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette.

How long can I keep the Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette in the fridge?

You can store this salad in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just remember that for optimal taste, it’s best enjoyed fresh!

What variations can I try with this Cucumber Feta Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, avocado, or even grilled chicken to customize your Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette as much as I do! It’s a delightful side dish that brightens up any meal with its vibrant flavors and colors. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or just want something quick and healthy at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!