Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that’s packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is one of my absolute favorites. It’s not only quick to whip up but also brings a burst of brightness to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need something simple for a busy weeknight dinner, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

What makes this recipe truly special is its delightful combination of crisp cucumbers and tangy feta, all brought together by a zesty lemon dressing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with just about anything – grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even on its own as a light lunch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can make this salad in just 10 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
• Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of cucumbers and feta creates a refreshing taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Make Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s great for potlucks, barbecues, or simply as a side dish at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. 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 best things about this salad is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra sustenance.
• Change the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese if you’re looking for a creamier texture.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Bell peppers or radishes would add even more crunch and color.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.

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. Then, thinly slice the red onion. This step is crucial because the thinner you slice them, the easier they will blend together with the other ingredients. Plus, it helps release their flavors!

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 what brings everything to life! The acidity from the lemon pairs beautifully with the creamy feta and crunchy veggies.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, dill, and parsley. If you’re using them, add in cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives too. Drizzle your prepared vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to coat all those lovely ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit

You can serve this salad immediately if you’re ready to dig in! However, letting it sit for about 10 minutes allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect Cucumber Feta Salad is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for organic cucumbers and fresh herbs; they bring vibrant flavors and nutrients that frozen or old ingredients simply can’t match.
• Adjust the Dressing to Taste – Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette by adding more lemon juice or olive oil according to your preference; this ensures the salad suits your palate.
• Let It Chill – If time allows, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese Options – If you want a different flavor profile, try using a tangy goat cheese instead of feta; it adds creaminess and a unique taste.
• Add Crunch with Nuts or Seeds – For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts on top before serving; they add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the salad.

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette

Serving your Cucumber Feta Salad can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped dill or parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color that makes the dish visually appealing.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest not only enhances the lemon flavor but also adds a beautiful golden hue to your salad.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a delightful pairing with this refreshing salad, providing protein and depth.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables offers a hearty complement to the lightness of the salad, creating a wholesome meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for an added layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up this delicious salad. It adds a Mediterranean touch and makes for great hand-held bites.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a convenient side dish for busy weeknights or gatherings.

 

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you are concerned about sogginess, keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of cucumbers and feta may change once thawed.
• For longer storage, consider preparing the vinaigrette separately and storing it in the freezer.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you’ve stored the ingredients separately, simply combine them again before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious salad? Here are some common queries!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to store the vinaigrette separately to keep the cucumbers crisp.

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

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, or as part of a larger buffet spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many meals!

How long does Cucumber Feta Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Cucumber Feta Salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. Enjoy it within that time frame for the best taste!

Can I customize my Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or swap out the olives for capers. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a taste of Greece right to your table. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!