Cucumber Feta Salad

Thank you for being here — I’m seriously excited to share this one with you! This Cucumber Feta Salad is crisp, creamy, and bright with flavor — the kind of dish that comes together in minutes but tastes like you’ve been planning it all day. Whether you’re looking for a quick side for summer grilling, a refreshing salad for lunch, or a cool bite to beat the heat, this is it. It’s simple, beautiful, and so satisfying.

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What Is Cucumber Feta Salad?

Cucumber Feta Salad is a cool, Mediterranean-inspired dish made with crunchy cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a zippy vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or meal prep staple. Some versions are creamy, others vinaigrette-based — and today we’re going with a bright lemon-herb dressing that lets the ingredients truly shine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and refreshing – A perfect warm-weather dish

• 5-minute prep – Seriously quick to throw together

• Crisp + creamy – That feta and cucumber combo never fails

• Versatile – Serve as a side, salad, or snack

• Meal-prep approved – Stays fresh in the fridge for days

What Does It Taste Like?

This salad is all about contrast: crisp cucumbers and creamy, salty feta, tied together with lemon, olive oil, and just a touch of garlic. The fresh herbs add brightness, and each bite feels cooling, clean, and just a little indulgent thanks to the cheese. It’s anything but boring!!

Why You Can Feel Good About It

Cucumber Feta Salad is naturally low-carb, vegetarian, and packed with hydration (hello, cucumbers!). It’s also filled with healthy fats from olive oil and can be easily customized for different dietary needs.

Ingredients for Cucumber Feta Salad

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian cucumbers work best)

• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely sliced (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional but amazing)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess)

• Pinch of sugar or honey, to balance acidity

Tools You’ll Need

• Cutting board and sharp knife

• Mixing bowl

• Small jar or bowl for the dressing

• Spoon or salad tongs for tossing

• Optional: mandoline for ultra-thin cucumber slices

Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ons

I promised you versatile — and this one really is!

Swaps:

• No feta? Use goat cheese or a plant-based feta alternative.

• No fresh herbs? Use dried dill (½ tsp) or skip and focus on the vinaigrette flavor.

• No red onion? Try green onions or skip for a milder flavor.

Add-Ons:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Sliced radishes for peppery crunch

• Olives, for a Mediterranean twist

• Chickpeas, to add protein and make it more filling

• Avocado, for extra creaminess

How to Make Cucumber Feta Salad – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Slice Your Cucumbers

Thinly slice cucumbers (use a mandoline for even slices if you have one). Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, mustard (if using), and a pinch of sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add chopped herbs, red onion, and crumbled feta to the bowl with the cucumbers. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is coated.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give it a quick taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more lemon for brightness, more salt if the cucumbers are bland, or more feta if you want it cheesier.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let it chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

What to Serve With Cucumber Feta Salad

This salad shines as a side dish or a light main, and it pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken or fish (especially salmon or shrimp!)

• Gyros or falafel wraps

• Grilled halloumi or lamb kebabs

• Stuffed grape leaves or hummus with pita

• Crusty bread + glass of white wine = dinner done!

Tips for the Best Salad

• 🥒 Choose the Right Cucumbers

  • Use English or Persian cucumbers for the best crunch and fewer seeds. They’re naturally crisp, mild, and don’t require peeling.

  • If using regular garden cucumbers, peel and deseed them to avoid bitterness and excess moisture.

  💦 Prevent Sogginess

  • Salt the cucumbers before assembling the salad: Toss sliced cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain off the excess water. This keeps the salad crisp longer and prevents watery dressing.

  🧀 Use High-Quality Feta

  • Block feta in brine has more flavor and a creamier texture than pre-crumbled versions. Just crumble it yourself for a fresh, melt-in-your-mouth feel.

  🍋 Balance the Dressing

  • Taste the dressing before adding it — it should be bright but balanced. If it’s too tangy, a pinch of sugar or honey can mellow the acidity.

  • For a creamy twist, whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard.

  🌿 Go Big on Herbs

  • Don’t hold back! Fresh dill, mint, or even basil adds so much brightness. Add just before serving to keep them from wilting.

  🕒 Chill Before Serving

  • Let the salad sit in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it even more refreshing.

  🔁 Toss Gently

  • When mixing, toss gently to avoid breaking down the cucumbers or turning the feta into mush. A light hand = a prettier, fresher salad.

  🌟 Add Texture

  • For some crunch, sprinkle in toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or even crispy chickpeas right before serving.

Storage Instructions

• 🧊 Refrigerator Storage

  • Best consumed within 2–3 days.

  • Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its crispness.

  • The cucumbers will release some moisture over time, so give the salad a quick stir before serving. If it seems watery, just drain off a bit of the excess liquid.

  🥗 Make-Ahead Tip

  • To keep cucumbers extra crisp, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.

  • If making for a party or picnic, assemble the salad up to 1 day ahead but wait to add the dressing and cheese until a few hours before serving for peak freshness.

  🧀 Feta Note

  • Crumbled feta may soften a bit over time and blend more into the dressing — still delicious, but the texture may change slightly.

  ❌ Freezer? Not Recommended

  • This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of cucumbers and the delicate texture of the feta and herbs. It’s meant to be enjoyed fresh!

General Info About Cucumber Feta Salad

This dish is inspired by Mediterranean flavors and often shows up in Greek, Middle Eastern, and Turkish cuisine. Its simplicity is part of its charm — just a few ingredients, prepared well, can make an unforgettable salad. With hydration-boosting cucumbers and protein-rich feta, it’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent and nourishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It’s actually better if made a little in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until shortly before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Definitely — use a vegan feta or skip the cheese and add avocado or olives for richness.

Should I peel the cucumbers?

Not necessary if you’re using English or Persian cucumbers. If using standard slicing cucumbers with thick skin, peeling is a good idea.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. It scales perfectly and is great for picnics, BBQs, or potlucks.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Feta Salad is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. It’s crisp, creamy, zesty, and refreshing — everything you want in a salad, especially when the weather’s warm or time is tight. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats, as part of a light lunch, or bring it to a potluck, this dish always disappears fast (and earns compliments!).

What I love most is how flexible it is — swap in your favorite herbs, add a pop of tomato or avocado, or make it heartier with chickpeas or quinoa. No matter how you make it, this salad brings a bright, Mediterranean-inspired vibe that feels like a mini escape on your plate.

If this salad brightened your day, be sure to try my Lemon Orzo Salad or Watermelon Feta Salad next — they’re just as quick, colorful, and crowd-pleasing!

Let’s Stay Connected!

Tried this Cucumber Feta Salad? I’d love to see it!
📸 Share your creation on Pinterest and tag me — and don’t forget to leave a comment or rating below so others can hear how it turned out.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)

• Calories: 170

• Fat: 13g

• Carbs: 6g

• Protein: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

Cucumber Feta Salad

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

This crisp, creamy, and refreshing Cucumber Feta Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s quick to make and perfect for warm weather. With lemon-herb vinaigrette, crunchy cucumbers, and salty feta, it’s bright, hydrating, and totally addictive.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Pinch of sugar or honey

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Instructions

1. Thinly slice the cucumbers and place in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a small jar or bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, mustard (if using), and sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add feta, red onion, dill, and mint to the cucumbers.
4. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lemon, salt, or feta to preference.
6. Chill for 15 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers for best texture and no peeling. For meal prep, store dressing separately and mix before serving. Add-ons like cherry tomatoes, olives, or avocado elevate it further!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cucumber salad, feta, summer side, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad