Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s both quick and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is one of my favorite go-to recipes. It’s light, vibrant, and so easy to whip up in just 10 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings, this salad brings a burst of flavor and color to any table.

What I love most about this smashed cucumber salad is how versatile it is. You can serve it alongside grilled meats, as part of a picnic spread, or even as a light lunch on its own. Its fresh ingredients and delightful crunch make it a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of cucumbers, avocado, and herbs creates a bright and refreshing taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fun texture and delicious flavors.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep this salad in advance for effortless entertaining or meal prep.
• Versatile Pairing: It complements so many dishes, from grilled chicken to pita wraps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, you’ll need simple and wholesome ingredients that let the flavors shine. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun variations:

• Add more crunch: Toss in some toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an extra layer of texture.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Change up the cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or parsley instead of dill for a unique twist.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Smash the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers well. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. Place each half on your cutting board, then use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash them gently. This technique not only breaks them apart but also allows the dressing to soak into every bite! Once smashed, chop them into 1-inch pieces and transfer them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado

Next, peel your ripe avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add these creamy chunks directly into the bowl with your smashed cucumbers. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the crisp cucumbers, creating a delightful contrast.

Step 3: Mix in the Other Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those other wonderful ingredients! Toss in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives right into your bowl. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor and texture that makes this salad truly special.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a separate glass jar or bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well emulsified; this step ensures that each bite is perfectly seasoned.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour that lovely dressing over your salad mix. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Don’t forget to give it a taste—feel free to adjust any seasoning if needed! For an extra touch, I like to sprinkle some additional fresh herbs on top before serving.

And there you have it—a vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

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

Creating the perfect smashed cucumber salad is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Opt for Persian or English cucumbers as they are less watery and have fewer seeds, ensuring a crispier texture in your salad.

• Smash strategically: When smashing the cucumbers, aim for a gentle but firm pressure. This helps to break them down just enough to release their juices while keeping some crunch.

• Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh dill and chives rather than dried. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor and add vibrant color, making your salad not only taste better but look more appealing too!

• Balance the dressing: Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences. A little more lemon juice can brighten the flavors, while extra honey can add a touch of sweetness.

• Chill before serving: If time allows, let your salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Serving this trendy salad is just as fun as making it! With its vibrant colors and delightful textures, it’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Extra feta: A sprinkle of additional crumbled feta adds creaminess and enhances that wonderful salty flavor.
• Lemon zest: A dash of lemon zest on top gives your salad a refreshing citrus aroma that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection complements the freshness of your cucumber salad and makes for a satisfying protein addition.

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy side dish adds heartiness while being nutritious. It pairs nicely with the lightness of the cucumber salad.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots bring out earthy flavors that contrast beautifully with the fresh salad.

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or pita for dipping. It’s perfect for scooping up every delicious piece of your smashed cucumber salad!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal centered around your smashed cucumber salad! Enjoy every bite!

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 store it for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best freshness.
• If you anticipate having leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended.
• However, you can prepare individual components (like the smashed cucumbers or dressing) ahead of time and freeze them separately.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.
• If stored properly, simply give it a gentle toss before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead of serving. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it to maintain freshness.

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

If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta would work well. Alternatively, you could skip the cheese altogether and add more pistachios for crunch.

How do I add more flavor to my Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Consider adding extra herbs like parsley or mint. A dash of red pepper flakes can also bring a lovely kick to this refreshing dish!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as much as I do! Its vibrant flavors and quick preparation make it a standout addition to any meal. Whether it’s brightening up your lunch or being served alongside dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients — I’d love to hear how you make it your own!