Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, then you’re in the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is not only trendy but also incredibly quick to whip up. In just 10 minutes, you can create a delightful salad that is light, fresh, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a busy weeknight dinner, or simply craving something delicious, this salad is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, toss it into a wrap for lunch, or enjoy it on its own as a light snack. Trust me; once you try it, this smashed cucumber salad will become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this salad ready in just 10 minutes!
• Fresh and Light: The combination of cucumbers, avocado, and herbs makes each bite refreshing.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of the smashed cucumbers and creamy avocado.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a main meal component; it pairs well with almost anything.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! They come together to create a vibrant and flavorful salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

For the Salad

• 4 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber
• 1 medium ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

For the Dressing

• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic – peeled and minced
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is how flexible it is. Feel free to adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences!

• Add Some Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Mix in Other Veggies: Bell peppers or radishes would add nice crunch and color!

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers thoroughly. Chop each cucumber in half and place them on a cutting board. Using the flat side of your knife (and your hand), smash each piece gently. This step not only breaks them down but also allows the dressing to soak in beautifully. After smashing, chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a medium bowl.

Step 2: Add Avocado

Next up is the avocado! Peel it carefully, chop it into small pieces, and toss it into the bowl with the cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado complements the crunchiness of the cucumbers perfectly. It’s all about creating that delightful texture contrast!

Step 3: Mix in Herbs and Nuts

Now it’s time to add some flavor! Toss in the crumbled feta cheese along with chopped pistachios, dill, and chives into your bowl. These ingredients bring vibrant flavors that elevate your salad from basic to extraordinary.

Step 4: Whisk Together Dressing

In a glass jar or bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well emulsified—this helps marry all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and give everything a gentle toss. Make sure every piece gets coated! If you like, sprinkle some more fresh herbs on top for that extra pop of freshness before serving.

And there you have it—a delightful Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Making the perfect smashed cucumber salad is all about the little details! Here are some handy tips to elevate your salad-making game:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cucumbers, ripe avocados, and high-quality feta cheese. Fresh ingredients ensure a more vibrant flavor and delightful texture in your salad.

• Smash with Care: When smashing the cucumbers, use just enough pressure to break them without turning them into mush. This technique creates ideal surfaces for absorbing the dressing while maintaining a satisfying crunch.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste as you go. Adjusting seasoning gradually allows you to find the perfect balance without overpowering the fresh flavors.

• Make Ahead of Time: You can prepare the components of this salad in advance. Just assemble them with the dressing shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

• Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs or ingredients like mint or sunflower seeds. This flexibility lets you customize the salad according to your personal taste!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present it beautifully for an impressive dish that can brighten any table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra dill or chives on top adds color and enhances the herbaceous flavors.
• Lemon Zest: A light dusting of lemon zest right before serving gives a delightful citrus aroma that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with seasonal vegetables makes for a hearty side that pairs nicely with the freshness of the cucumber salad.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with spices add protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal when served alongside this refreshing salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tartness of feta, creating a well-rounded plate.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips provides a simple yet tasty option that complements the salad’s flavors while adding variety to your meal.

Enjoy this vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as part of your next gathering or everyday meal. Your taste buds will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in no time, and it keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or side dishes throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, store the dressing separately to maintain the salad’s crispness.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t ideal for freezing due to its texture.
• If you have leftover ingredients (like chopped cucumbers or herbs), consider freezing them individually for future use in other recipes.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold, so no reheating is necessary!
• Enjoy it straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delightful salad:

Can I make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast as a substitute. Both will add a nice flavor without compromising on taste!

How long does Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh in your fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for maximum crunchiness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as much as I do! Its lightness and refreshing flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a picnic, as a side dish at dinner, or simply enjoy it as a snack, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!