Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect when you want something quick yet delicious, especially on busy weeknights or during family gatherings. The combination of creamy avocado and tangy feta brings a lovely depth of flavor, while the fresh herbs make each bite feel like a burst of summer.

In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this salad and serve it alongside grilled meats, wraps, or even as a standalone dish. Trust me; your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can have this delicious salad ready in just 10 minutes—perfect for those hectic days!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The crunchy cucumbers combined with creamy avocado and zesty feta create an explosion of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults) love the mix of textures and tastes, making it a hit at any table.
• Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs beautifully with many main dishes or stands out on its own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance for potlucks or meal prep; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this fabulous salad. Don’t worry; everything is easy to find at your local grocery store!

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! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Crunch: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
• Swap the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pistachios, try using walnuts or sunflower seeds instead.
• Change Up the Cheese: For a different flavor profile, use goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
• Make It Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes for a little kick!

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. Place each half onto a cutting board, then gently smash them with the flat side of your knife and your hand. This technique not only breaks them down but also helps release their refreshing juices! Once smashed, chop them into 1-inch pieces and toss them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add the Avocado

Next, peel your ripe avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. The creaminess of the avocado complements the crunchiness of the cucumbers beautifully. Add it to the bowl along with those smashed cucumbers.

Step 3: Mix in the Goodness

Now it’s time to add all of those delightful ingredients! Toss in crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives. Each ingredient adds its own special touch to this delightful salad.

Step 4: Whisk Together Your Dressing

In a glass jar or bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is nicely emulsified. This dressing ties all the flavors together perfectly!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour your homemade dressing over the salad mixture and give it a good toss. Make sure every piece gets coated with that delicious dressing! For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle some more herbs on top before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

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

Creating a delicious smashed cucumber salad is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian or English cucumbers are ideal for this salad due to their thin skin and mild flavor. They add a refreshing crunch without being bitter.

• Smash with care: When smashing the cucumbers, don’t go overboard! You want them to crack and open slightly but not turn into mush. This texture helps the dressing soak in while maintaining some crunch.

• Fresh herbs are key: Always use fresh dill and chives instead of dried. Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavors and a lovely aroma that enhances the overall taste of your salad.

• Experiment with dressing: Feel free to modify the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing!

• Serve chilled: For the best flavor, let your salad chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This delightful smashed cucumber salad can be presented in various ways that will impress your family and friends. Here are some ideas to make it shine!

Garnishes

• Extra feta crumbles: A sprinkle of additional feta on top adds visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.
• Chopped nuts: A handful of toasted pistachios or walnuts can enhance texture and give a nutty crunch that complements the creamy avocado.
• Fresh herb sprigs: A few sprigs of dill or chives placed artfully on top make for an inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated with lemon and herbs provide a protein-packed option that pairs wonderfully with this refreshing salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf tossed with vegetables offers a hearty yet healthy side that balances well with the freshness of the salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add depth and warmth to your meal, making it satisfying and colorful.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread served alongside is perfect for scooping up the salad or enjoying as a light bite, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Enjoy making this scrumptious Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor fresh flavors and share good times around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is not only quick to whip up, but it also makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the fresh flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of cucumbers and avocado can become mushy once thawed.
• Instead, prepare just enough for your meal or store the ingredients separately if you want to save some for later.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
• Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the flavors!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful salad that might help you out!

What pairs well with Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping on whole-grain toast. It’s versatile enough to accompany many dishes!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance; just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.

What can I substitute instead of feta cheese in Smashed Cucumber Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta alternative. Both will add a lovely creaminess without compromising taste.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists on this recipe!