Hey y'all! If you're seeking a crisp, vibrant side that's bursting with flavor and takes just minutes to make, this Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is what your day needs. It's the perfect blend of cool cucumbers, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon dressing—ideal for summer barbecues, quick lunches, or a light dinner starter. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Super quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Refreshing and light, making it perfect for hot days or as a palate cleanser.
- Packed with flavor from zesty lemon, creamy feta, and fresh herbs.
- Versatile—enjoy as a side, a picnic salad, or even a healthy lunch.
- Customizable with simple variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoon juice)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Add the feta and chopped fresh dill, then toss lightly again to combine.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes before serving. Give it a quick toss and taste for seasoning before bringing to the table.
Notes for the Perfect Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- English cucumbers work best for their thin skin and mild crunch, but Persian cucumbers are a great substitute. Learn more about cucumber varieties.
- Letting the salad chill for even 10-15 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- For extra tang, add a splash of red wine vinegar or swap in white wine vinegar for the lemon juice.
Variations on Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Greek-Inspired Salad: Add kalamata olives and a pinch of oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
- Avocado Boost: Toss in diced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Protein Power: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Required Equipment for Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so toss the salad again before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Suggested Pairings and Serving Recommendations
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or as a bright side to sandwiches. Try it alongside grilled chicken skewers, salmon, or as part of a mezze platter with pita and hummus.
Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- For extra-crisp cucumbers, chill them in cold water before slicing (see Serious Eats' cucumber guide).
- Slice the onions as thinly as possible to prevent overpowering the delicate salad flavors.
- Use high-quality olive oil for a rich, peppery vinaigrette—check out Epicurious' olive oil tips.
FAQ: Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare up to 4 hours ahead, but add the feta and dill just before serving for the best texture.
- What if I don't have fresh dill?
- You can use 1 tablespoon of dried dill or substitute with fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Is this salad gluten-free?
- Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
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2In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
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3Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
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4Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped dill to the salad and toss lightly.
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5Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving for extra freshness.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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