Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and color. This salad combines crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, making it perfect for summer lunches or as a side for dinner. Its bright flavors and vibrant ingredients elevate any meal, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your busy life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or busy weekdays.
- Fresh Ingredients: Featuring crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, this dish is packed with nutrients, perfect for health-conscious eaters.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish at a barbecue, it complements various meals beautifully.
- Flavorful Twist: The addition of feta cheese and dill adds a unique flavor profile that sets this salad apart from ordinary vegetable mixes.
- Low-Calorie Delight: With only 292 calories per serving, this Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is a guilt-free option for calorie-conscious individuals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the preparation of your Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, gather the essential tools to ensure an effortless cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing vegetables safely.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even slices of cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Mixing bowl: Offers ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 Persian cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped dill
- 1 1/2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/4 tsp. salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp. pepper (or to taste)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half for easy mixing and enhanced flavor release. Thinly slice the red onion to add a mild bite to your salad.
Step 2: Crumble the Feta Cheese
Take the feta cheese and crumble it into small pieces using your hands or a fork. This will help distribute the creamy texture throughout the salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add all prepared ingredients: cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta, and chopped dill. Pour in the olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Gently toss all ingredients together until they are well mixed. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of your Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad!
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a side at dinner parties. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair with whole grain bread for a wholesome meal.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling.
With Grilled Meats
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced plate.
- The acidity of the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled foods.
As a Party Appetizer
- Present in small cups for easy serving during gatherings.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
On Top of Greens
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added texture.
- Toss in some avocado slices for creaminess.
How to Perfect Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
To create the most flavorful Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance the freshness and taste of your salad.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best flavor.
- Cut uniformly: Slice vegetables into similar sizes for even mixing and presentation.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to let flavors meld together.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Use quality feta: Opt for Greek feta cheese for its rich flavor and creaminess.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding mint or parsley along with dill for different tastes.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad pairs wonderfully with several sides. These complementary dishes can enhance your meal and provide variety.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish offers a hearty base packed with nutrients.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the salad’s freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out earthy flavors alongside the salad.
- Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus options with pita chips makes a great dipper.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can add carbohydrates while keeping things refreshing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping Fresh Herbs – Fresh dill adds an incredible flavor to the salad. Avoid using dried herbs; they won’t provide the same freshness.
- Using Overripe Tomatoes – Overripe tomatoes can make the salad mushy. Always choose firm, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning – Proper seasoning is key in a salad. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they enhance the taste of all ingredients.
- Cutting Vegetables Too Early – If you cut vegetables too far in advance, they may lose their crispness. Chop them just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Not Mixing Thoroughly – A gentle toss is essential for even distribution of flavors. Avoid just layering ingredients; mix them well to combine tastes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the salad separate from dressing if possible to maintain crispness.
Freezing Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Avoid Freezing – This salad does not freeze well due to its high water content and fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Oven – Not recommended as this salad is best served cold.
- Microwave – Avoid reheating; this will wilt the veggies and change texture.
- Stovetop – Not suitable for heating; serve chilled for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives, or substitute feta with goat cheese.
How do I make a vegan version of Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad?
To make it vegan, replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or simply omit it altogether.
What can I serve with Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad?
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch on its own.
Is Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is low in calories and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for summer meals or as a side dish year-round. Its versatility allows for customization based on your taste preferences, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Try it out today and enjoy the refreshing taste!
Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Total Time: 59 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick lunch. This salad features crisp Persian cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed together with fresh dill and a drizzle of olive oil. Not only is it easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether served on its own or as a delightful side at your next barbecue, this salad brings a burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 Persian cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 medium red onion
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped dill
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Thinly slice the red onion.
- Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta, and dill. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss all ingredients until well combined and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 292
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or replace feta with goat cheese for a different twist.