Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is one of my all-time favorites. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, can be a light lunch on its own, or even serve as an impressive side at your next barbecue. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes—perfect for those hectic days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring wholesome ingredients like cucumbers and dill, this salad bursts with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the crunchy texture and creamy components.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main course; it fits into any meal plan seamlessly.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for picnics or potlucks—just add the dressing before serving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each component adds its unique flavor to create a refreshing experience. Here’s what you need:

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like some heat.
• Swap the cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier taste.
• Add more veggies: Include diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for even more color and flavor.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers thoroughly. Then chop each cucumber in half. Lay them flat on a cutting board, and using the flat side of your knife along with your hand, smash each piece gently but firmly. Chopping them into roughly 1-inch pieces helps enhance their texture while mixing well with other ingredients.

Step 2: Combine with Avocado

Next, peel your ripe avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the avocado to the bowl with the smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the cucumbers—creating a delightful contrast that makes this salad special!

Step 3: Mix in Feta and Herbs

Now it’s time to add those lovely flavors! Toss in crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives into your bowl. Each ingredient contributes its distinct taste while maintaining balance—trust me; you’re going to love this combination!

Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate glass jar or bowl, combine all your dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well emulsified. This dressing ties all flavors together beautifully!

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Pour that delicious dressing over your salad mixture in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until well combined. I often like to sprinkle more fresh herbs on top before serving—it adds that final touch of freshness!

And there you have it! Enjoy your Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as a refreshing side dish or light meal anytime you crave something bright and satisfying. Happy cooking!

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

Creating the perfect smashed cucumber salad is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are ideal because they are crunchy and have fewer seeds. English cucumbers also work well, but make sure to peel them if the skin is too thick.
• Use ripe avocados: A perfectly ripe avocado adds creaminess and enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Look for avocados that yield slightly when pressed but aren’t overly soft.
• Fresh herbs matter: Using fresh dill and chives instead of dried herbs will elevate your salad with brighter flavors and aromas. Fresh herbs bring life to your dish!
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even tastier.
• Experiment with dressings: Feel free to add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for an extra kick. Customizing your dressing can make this dish even more unique!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not only delicious but also versatile in presentation. Here are some fun ideas to serve it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Extra feta crumbles: A light sprinkle of additional feta on top adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes can offer a vibrant color contrast and provide a nice crunch.
• Lemon zest: A dash of lemon zest on top brightens the dish visually while enhancing its citrusy notes.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf tossed with seasonal vegetables makes a perfect companion, adding protein and fiber while complementing the freshness of your salad.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes bring smoky flavors that pair wonderfully with the lightness of the cucumber salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served alongside crunchy pita chips offers a satisfying munching experience that balances out your meal excellently.
• Roasted Chickpeas: These crispy, seasoned snacks are not only healthy but also add an exciting crunch that harmonizes beautifully with your fresh salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your smashed cucumber salad with feta and dill in style! Happy cooking!

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, making it an ideal addition to your weekly menu. Here’s how to store it properly and make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for about 1-2 days, but for the best flavor and texture, enjoy it fresh.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the high water content of cucumbers, which can change the texture when thawed.
• Instead, prepare the ingredients ahead of time (except for avocados) and store them separately until ready to serve.

Reheating

• There is no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If stored, simply give it a gentle toss before serving to recombine the flavors.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions that may help.

Can I customize the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative or add other herbs like parsley or mint. You can also include additional veggies such as bell peppers or tomatoes for extra flavor.

How do I make the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. The other ingredients are already vegan-friendly!

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

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, whole grains, or as a refreshing side dish to your favorite protein meals. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

How long does it take to make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

You can prepare this tasty salad in just 10 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with fresh flavors that brighten any meal. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or bringing a dish to share at a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking!