Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe

There’s something downright magical about the classic Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe — it’s a refreshing medley of crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, tangy feta, and a vibrant herb-studded dressing that takes just minutes to throw together. This is the salad I crave on warm afternoons, when every bite delivers cool crunch and a bright, salty kick. Whether you’re serving it with grilled mains, packing it for a picnic, or just looking for a quick lunch packed with flavor and color, this recipe never disappoints!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients for this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe, but each is essential for building depth and balance. Every component plays its role — from the zippy red onion to the creamy, salty crumbly feta — to create a bowl bursting with flavor, texture, and plenty of visual appeal.

• English cucumber: Fresh, seedless, and wonderfully crisp — the backbone of this salad.
• Avocado: Adds buttery richness and makes each bite especially satisfying.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, pungent contrast that wakes up all the flavors.
• Feta cheese: Salty and briny, balancing the veggies and adding creamy texture.
• Parsley: A pop of green that lifts everything with herbal freshness.
• Fresh dill: Infuses the salad with a delicate, summery aroma.
• Olive oil: The foundation of a lush, flavorful dressing.
• Lemon juice: Brings brightness and a gentle tang that pairs perfectly with feta.
• Red wine vinegar: Another punch of acidity, enhancing the salad’s overall zing.
• Garlic: For a subtle kick and plenty of savory depth.
• Dried oregano: A Mediterranean classic that ties the flavors together.
• Kosher salt: Makes all the fresh ingredients sing.
• Black pepper: A hint of heat and earthiness to round it all out.

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies and Herbs

Start by slicing your English cucumber into half moons — I like to keep them on the thicker side for a satisfying crunch. Dice the avocado and thinly slice the red onion so every forkful gets a little bit of everything. Add all these, plus the crumbled feta and a handful of chopped parsley, to a large mixing bowl. The fresh dill can join here too; it’s what gives this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe its summery personality.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

Grab a small bowl for the dressing. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple vinaigrette is the real secret — it coats those crisp veggies, softens the sharpness of the onion, and brings the whole salad together with a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Mix

Pour your whisked dressing all over the veggies, avocado, and feta in the big mixing bowl. Use a spoon (or your hands, if you’re feeling bold!) to gently toss it all together. Be careful with the avocado and feta so they don’t turn to mush — you want each bite to keep its texture and shape. Everything should be deliciously glossy and evenly coated by the end.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

One of the best things about a Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Give it a quick taste test. Need more zing? Add a little extra lemon juice. Love it saltier? Sprinkle in an extra pinch of feta. Adjust the seasoning until it’s absolutely perfect, then enjoy right away or chill for a few minutes if you like it extra crisp and cold.

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For a final flourish, I love a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta, a handful of more chopped dill or parsley, and a grind of fresh black pepper over the top. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good olive oil add even more character to this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe.

Side Dishes

This salad is seriously versatile and works with almost anything. I often pair it with grilled chicken or fish, tuck it next to roasted potatoes, or scoop it up with warm pita. Its cool, tangy flavors are the perfect counterpoint to spicy kebabs or rich, creamy dips served family-style.

Creative Ways to Present

For guests, you can portion the Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe into individual glass cups or layer it elegantly on a big platter, letting all the colorful ingredients shine. Try using cucumber “boats” or endive leaves as edible vessels for a fun, party-ready twist, or heap it on toasted sourdough for a satisfying open-faced tartine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors meld nicely as it sits for a few hours — just keep in mind that the avocado may soften and the cucumbers might release a bit of extra liquid. Give it a gentle stir and a taste before serving again.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad, as the cucumbers and avocado simply won’t hold their texture after thawing. The fresh herbs would also lose their bright color and flavor, making the salad less appealing. Stick to making it fresh or enjoying quick leftovers from the fridge.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe — it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature! If it’s been in the fridge, let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off, then give it a quick toss and adjust the seasoning before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a regular cucumber instead of English cucumber?

Absolutely! Just be sure to peel and seed regular cucumbers if their skin or seeds are tough or bitter. The flavor will still be refreshing — English cucumbers just happen to be a bit milder and less watery.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta?

Yes, you can swap in your favorite plant-based feta cheese. Or, try diced marinated tofu for a dairy-free yet protein-packed twist that still adds savory, creamy notes.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado thoroughly with the dressing’s lemon juice and vinegar right away — the acidity slows browning. If prepping ahead, add avocado at the last minute for the freshest taste and appearance.

Can I make this salad a day ahead?

You can prep most of the ingredients (except avocado) and whisk the dressing up to a day in advance. Right before serving, dice the avocado and combine everything so it stays at its very best.

What other herbs could I use?

If you’re out of dill or want to mix it up, try basil, mint, or chives — they all work beautifully in the Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe and bring their own unique character.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something vibrant, simple, and absolutely bursting with flavor, I can’t recommend this Cucumber Feta Salad Recipe enough. It’s quickly become my go-to, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why! So go ahead — gather your ingredients and dive into this refreshingly delicious salad.

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