Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious dish, you have to try this Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and zesty lemon dressing that feels like a little Mediterranean sunshine on your plate. Every bite bursts with freshness and a lovely tang from the Greek vinaigrette, making it an ideal side or light meal that can brighten up any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and refreshing, but each plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this salad. From the crisp cucumbers to the tangy feta and the herbaceous green notes, everything comes together beautifully.

• 4 large organic Persian cucumbers: Their mild, sweet flavor and crunchy texture make them the star of the salad.
• ½ small red onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite that wakes up the taste buds.
• 1 cup feta cheese: Creamy and salty, feta provides richness and classic Greek flavor.
• ½ tbsp fresh dill: Offers a delicate herbal note that pairs perfectly with cucumber.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a subtle earthiness that brightens the dish.
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the salad.
• ¼ cup kalamata olives: Bring a briny depth that’s authentic and satisfying.
• Lemon Greek Vinaigrette ingredients: 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, ½ tsp dried oregano, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper – these simple pantry staples combine to create the zesty dressing that ties everything together seamlessly.

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers and Onions

Start by slicing those lovely Persian cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons – whichever you prefer. Thinly slice the red onion as well, so it blends gently into the salad without overpowering it. The thin slices ensure every forkful has a balanced crunch and bite.

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 bright, tangy, and herb-infused, and it’s what makes the Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe so irresistible and unique.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your cucumbers, red onions, crumbled or block feta, chopped dill, and parsley. If you have them on hand, add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced kalamata olives for extra flavor and color. Drizzle the vibrant lemon Greek vinaigrette over the mix and toss gently until every ingredient is coated with that luscious dressing.

Step 4: Serve Right Away or Let It Sit

You can dive in immediately if you love fresh and crisp, or let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Both ways are fantastic, and either will leave you craving more.

How to Serve Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe

Garnishes

For a final touch, sprinkle some extra fresh dill or parsley over the top. A little cracked black pepper or a few extra kalamata olives can add visual appeal and an extra pop of flavor that makes this salad feel special.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled chicken, seafood, or even as a refreshing complement to a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter. It’s light enough to be a side but substantial enough to steal the show as a standalone light lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a beautiful glass bowl to showcase all the vibrant colors, or plate it on individual salad plates with a lemon wedge on the side for a bit of extra zest when desired. Pair it with warm pita bread for a fun, interactive dining experience that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the flavors.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and feta, freezing is not recommended for the Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe as it can alter the texture and taste significantly.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Since it is a fresh, crisp dish, reheating is not advisable—it will lose its charm and delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Absolutely! While Persian cucumbers are preferred for their tender skin and fewer seeds, English or other thin-skinned cucumbers work well too. Just peel regular cucumbers if the skin is thick or waxed.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Traditional feta cheese is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, so this recipe is not vegan. However, you can substitute vegan feta alternatives to keep the creamy texture and salty tang.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! The lemon Greek vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept in the fridge. Just whisk it again before using to ensure it’s well combined.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure your ingredients, especially the vinaigrette components, haven’t been cross-contaminated.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Fresh dill and parsley add freshness, but if you only have dried herbs, use them sparingly as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, basil or mint can provide a nice twist.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Greek Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a breath of fresh air, no matter what season it is. It’s quick, simple, and packed with big, bright flavors that will quickly become a favorite go-to. Give it a try today and watch how it transforms your salad game into something truly special!

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