Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette in minutes for a refreshing side dish perfect for any meal. This salad combines crisp cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy lemon dressing that brightens up your plate. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a light lunch, this salad is versatile and delicious. The unique flavors and textures make it stand out as an easy yet impressive dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this salad ready in no time.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cucumbers and lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing bite that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A whisk
- A large mixing bowl
- A small bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the cucumbers and onions effortless and safe.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your countertops.
- Whisk: Perfect for emulsifying the vinaigrette ingredients together for a smooth dressing.
Ingredients
Make cucumber feta salad with lemon Greek vinaigrette in minutes with crisp cucumbers, feta, and a tangy lemon dressing. A quick and easy side dish.
Fresh Ingredients
- 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
How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions
- Slice the Persian cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Fresh lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced red onions
- Feta cheese
- Chopped dill
- Chopped parsley
- If using, add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced kalamata olives.
- Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste or let it sit for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
Cucumber feta salad with lemon Greek vinaigrette is a refreshing dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful salad.
As a Light Lunch
- Serve it on its own for a light and healthy lunch option.
- Pair it with pita bread or whole-grain crackers for added texture.
With Grilled Meats
- Complement grilled chicken or lamb skewers for a balanced meal.
- The tangy flavors of the salad enhance the smoky taste of grilled meats.
At a Picnic
- Pack this salad in a portable container for an easy picnic dish.
- Its fresh ingredients make it perfect for outdoor dining.
As Part of a Buffet
- Include the salad in a buffet spread at parties or gatherings.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing to guests.
With Mediterranean Dishes
- Serve alongside falafel or gyros to elevate your Mediterranean feast.
- The flavors harmonize beautifully with traditional Greek cuisine.
How to Perfect Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
Perfecting your cucumber feta salad with lemon Greek vinaigrette can elevate the dish even further. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cucumbers, herbs, and feta will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
- Chill Before Serving – Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or avocado for extra variety and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
Pairing side dishes with cucumber feta salad can create a delightful meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this fresh salad nicely.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken marinated in herbs makes a delicious pairing that balances flavors well.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves – These savory rolls filled with rice and spices add an authentic touch to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection offer a warm contrast to the chilled salad.
- Pita Bread and Hummus – A classic combination that provides additional texture and flavor for dipping.
- Greek Yogurt Dip – Creamy yogurt infused with garlic and herbs serves as a tasty accompaniment for dipping veggies or bread.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A hearty side dish packed with protein that complements the lightness of the salad beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh cucumbers, herbs, and feta for the best taste. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish significantly.
- Overdressing the Salad – Be cautious with the amount of vinaigrette. Start with a little and add more if needed to avoid soggy salad.
- Neglecting to Chill – Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld. Don’t rush it; chilling enhances taste.
- Ignoring Texture – Include a variety of textures by adding crunchy veggies or nuts. This makes every bite interesting and enjoyable.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning – Taste your salad before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for freshness.
Freezing Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
- Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers lose their crispness when thawed.
- If necessary, only freeze the vinaigrette for up to 1 month.
Reheating Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
- Oven – This salad is best enjoyed cold; reheating is usually unnecessary.
- Microwave – If desired, warm gently on low heat for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop – Again, warming isn’t recommended due to potential loss of crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette?
This salad is low in calories and high in nutrients. Cucumbers provide hydration, while feta offers protein and calcium.
Can I customize my Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, avocados, or even grilled chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
How long does Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salad makes a great meal prep option. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a Mediterranean spread.
Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its vibrant ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. You can customize this recipe easily by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting ingredients based on what’s available. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette
Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with the crispness of fresh cucumbers, the creaminess of feta cheese, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also a feast for the senses. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. This versatile salad is a fantastic addition to summer barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, making it an impressive yet easy choice for your next meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 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)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and thinly slice the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, dill, parsley, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for about 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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