Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta – Easy & Refreshing Recipe

Crisp, cooling, and full of flavor, the Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta is a perfect addition to your summer meals. It combines the fresh crunch of cucumbers with the creamy tang of feta cheese, making it an ideal side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light snack on a warm day. Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy option or a dish that stands out at your next gathering, this smashed cucumber salad offers everything you need and more.

Why You’ll Love Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta

This Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta is not only easy to prepare but incredibly versatile and refreshing. The cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch, while the feta adds a creamy and tangy contrast. Tossed with a simple dressing and topped with fresh herbs, this salad is bursting with flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s perfect for those seeking a light, healthy side dish with minimal effort. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together!

Ingredients

For the perfect Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cucumbers: The base of the salad, providing a refreshing crunch and hydrating texture. Use seedless cucumbers like English or Persian for the best results.
• Feta cheese: Adds a creamy and salty tang to balance the freshness of the cucumbers.
• Fresh dill: Provides a burst of aromatic, herbaceous flavor that enhances the cucumber’s natural taste.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a zesty, citrusy kick.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the dressing, helping to bind all the ingredients together.
• Garlic: A subtle yet savory addition that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Pistachios: For a crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the feta.
• Salt and pepper: Season the salad to taste, enhancing the overall flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing any ingredients or have dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions to consider:

• Almonds or walnuts: Swap pistachios for another nut, like almonds or walnuts, for a different texture and flavor.
• Goat cheese: If you prefer a milder, tangier cheese, goat cheese is an excellent substitute for feta.
• Cilantro: For a twist on the flavor, try replacing dill with fresh cilantro if you’re looking for a more vibrant herb.
• Red onion: If you like a bit more bite, add some thinly sliced red onion for extra sharpness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta:

1. Prepare the cucumbers: Start by smashing the cucumbers to release their juices. This can be done by gently pressing down on them with the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin. Then, cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
2. Salt the cucumbers: Lightly salt the cucumbers and allow them to sit for about 10–15 minutes. This will help to draw out excess water, preserving the crispness.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the smashed cucumbers with the crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Add the pistachios: Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the salad for added crunch and texture.
6. Chill and serve: Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold for the best taste.

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few extra tips to make your Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta even better:

• Avoid excess water: If the cucumbers release too much water, drain it off before mixing them with the dressing. This keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Make ahead: This salad is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Make it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge to let the flavors develop.
• Customize your flavors: Feel free to adjust the lemon, garlic, and dill to suit your preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a bit of spice if desired.
• Serve fresh: For the most vibrant, refreshing taste, serve the salad soon after preparing it.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled meats: The cool, crunchy salad is the perfect complement to grilled chicken, beef, or lamb.
• Sandwiches: Add it as a side or even as a topping for sandwiches like grilled cheese or a hearty club sandwich.
• Tacos: For a fresh contrast to spicy fillings, serve the cucumber salad alongside tacos, particularly fish or chicken tacos.
• Pasta: Enjoy it with a simple pasta dish like spaghetti with garlic and olive oil for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

The Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta is not only a flavorful dish but also a nutritious one. Cucumbers are rich in hydration, helping to keep you refreshed during the hot summer months. Feta adds a dose of calcium, while the pistachios provide healthy fats and protein. This salad is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without compromising on taste, and it’s ideal for the warm-weather season when cucumbers are at their peak.

This refreshing salad is low-effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or a quick, light dish at a weekend BBQ.

By preparing this Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta, you’re not only treating yourself to a delightful dish but also enjoying the many health benefits that come with each fresh ingredient.

Conclusion

The Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta is a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at your next BBQ or enjoying it as a light snack, the combination of crunchy cucumbers, creamy feta, and aromatic dill creates a satisfying flavor profile. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your dietary preferences and can be made ahead for convenience. With its refreshing taste and healthy ingredients, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen all year round.

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