Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing and quick dish to brighten up your meal, this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is just the ticket! This delightful salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an incredible option for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates a flavor explosion that you’ll crave again and again.

What I absolutely love about this salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a side with grilled chicken, mix it into tacos, or simply enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 10 minutes, you can have a delicious salad ready to go!
• Refreshing flavors: The combination of cucumber, dill, and feta creates a light and tasty experience.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients or add proteins to make it suit your taste.
• Healthy choice: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s take a look at what you’ll 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

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
• Change up the nuts: Swap pistachios for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Try different herbs: Basil or parsley can be lovely substitutes if you’re out of dill.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers well. Chop each one in half and place them flat on a cutting board. Using the flat side of your knife, gently smash each piece—this brings out their juicy goodness! Cut them into 1-inch pieces and place them in a medium-sized bowl. If you’re using larger cucumbers, cut them into quarters first to make smashing easier.

Step 2: Add Avocado and Other Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Peel your avocado, chop it up, and add it into the bowl with the smashed cucumbers. Then toss in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives. This mix of textures and flavors is going to be fantastic!

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, combine all of your dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until they’re well mixed—this dressing will tie all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Dress Your Salad

Pour that delicious dressing over your salad mixture. Give everything a gentle toss so that all those beautiful ingredients are coated nicely. If you like, sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top before serving—it’s all about making it look as good as it tastes! Enjoy your refreshing Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill!

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

This salad is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, so let’s make it even better with a few helpful tips!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are perfect for this salad as they are sweeter and have fewer seeds compared to other types. If you use an English cucumber, just be sure to remove the seeds for optimal texture.
• Smash with care: When smashing the cucumbers, apply even pressure to avoid creating mushy bits. This helps maintain their crunchiness and gives your salad a delightful contrast in texture.
• Fresh herbs make a difference: Always opt for fresh dill and chives rather than dried versions. Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Perfect your dressing: Whisking the dressing ingredients well ensures that all flavors meld beautifully. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some freshly cracked black pepper.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance the flavor as the ingredients have time to mingle. Plus, it’s refreshing on a warm day!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Serving this smashed cucumber salad is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Extra dill: A sprinkle of additional fresh dill on top adds color and reinforces that wonderful herbaceous flavor.
• Lemon zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top can brighten up the salad even more, enhancing its freshness.
• Pistachio halves: A few whole pistachios scattered on top not only look beautiful but also add extra crunch.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf, mixed with vegetables like bell peppers and peas, pairs nicely with the refreshing flavors of the salad while offering hearty protein.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated grilled chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the lightness of your cucumber salad without overwhelming it.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil makes a delightful side that echoes similar flavors found in your salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips provides a satisfying dip that balances well with your fresh salad.

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is ready to steal the show at your next meal! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! It’s quick to make, deliciously refreshing, and can be stored easily for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days to maintain freshness.
• If you plan on keeping it longer, store the dressing separately to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the high water content of cucumbers and avocado.
• Instead, prepare it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• No reheating is necessary since this salad is served cold.
• Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill.

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

Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in the Smashed Cucumber Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta alternative that suits your taste.

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

This salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with fresh ingredients, healthy fats from avocado, and vitamins from herbs and cucumbers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you adore making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as much as I do! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as part of your meal prep, I’m sure it will bring joy to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!