Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing and quick side dish, I have just the thing for you: Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! This delightful salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a breeze to whip up. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad fits right in!

What makes this recipe so special? It’s all about the combination of crispy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese. Each bite is light yet satisfying, making it the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a standalone snack. Trust me; you’re going to want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of cucumbers, avocado, and fresh herbs creates a bright and delicious taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of smashed cucumbers, making this dish a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or serve it on its own for a light lunch.
• Easy Clean-Up: With minimal ingredients and equipment, your kitchen stays tidy while you create something delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill. You probably have some of them in your kitchen already!

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

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations to try:

• Add more crunch: Incorporate sliced radishes or bell peppers for extra texture.
• Change the cheese: Substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Switch up the herbs: Use mint or cilantro instead of dill for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Smash the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers thoroughly. Chop each cucumber in half. Place each half onto a cutting board and use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash them down gently. This step is key as smashing releases their juicy goodness! Once smashed, chop them into 1-inch pieces and add them to your bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado

Peel your ripe avocado carefully (it should be soft but not mushy!). Chop it into bite-sized pieces and toss it into the bowl with your smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado complements the crunchiness of the cucumbers perfectly.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all the remaining salad ingredients! Toss in crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, dill, and chives into the bowl with cucumbers and avocado. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor and texture.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, add all the dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is combined nicely—this dressing is what brings all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Pour that delicious dressing over your salad mixture in the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly until everything is well-coated in that lovely dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy! For an extra touch, sprinkle more fresh herbs on top before serving.

And there you have it—a refreshing Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that’s easy to make and even easier to eat! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect smashed cucumber salad is a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish to the next level.

• Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Opt for Persian or English cucumbers as they are sweeter and have fewer seeds, resulting in a crispier texture that enhances the salad’s overall flavor.

• Smash with Care: When smashing the cucumbers, use just enough pressure to break them open without completely pulverizing them. This method allows for better absorption of the dressing while maintaining some crunch.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and chives not only add flavor but also provide vibrant color and aroma. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or mint if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Make Ahead Dressing: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving your salad an extra punch when you’re ready to serve.

• Serve Chilled: For a refreshing experience, chill your salad for about 15-30 minutes before serving. The cool temperature enhances the flavors and makes it even more satisfying on a warm day.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Extra Feta Crumbles: A sprinkle of additional feta on top adds richness and makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pistachios or walnuts can provide a lovely crunch, enhancing both texture and taste.
• Lemon Zest: A light dusting of fresh lemon zest right before serving can brighten up the flavors and add an eye-catching touch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a great protein addition that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with sautéed vegetables serves as a hearty side that pairs nicely with the lightness of the salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness and creaminess of roasted sweet potatoes balance out the tangy notes of the cucumber salad beautifully.
• Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft pita bread served alongside creamy hummus offers a delightful way to scoop up this refreshing salad, making it an ideal appetizer or snack.

With these tips and serving ideas, your smashed cucumber salad will shine at any gathering or meal. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy days when you want something fresh and healthy on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the cucumbers and avocado after thawing.
• It’s recommended to prepare only what you plan to eat within a few days.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad as it is best enjoyed cold.
• If you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this refreshing salad:

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

This salad typically lasts about 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. For the best taste and texture, consume it within that timeframe.

Can I make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill without feta cheese?

Yes! You can omit feta or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. The flavors will still be delightful!

What can I serve with Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a mezze platter. It also works great as a topping for toast or wraps!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or alongside your favorite main course, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!