Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a delightful, refreshing dish that takes just 10 minutes to prepare! It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light side dish for any meal. The combination of smashed cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates an explosion of flavor and texture that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or serve on its own for a healthy snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, it delivers vibrant flavors that are sure to please.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad fits seamlessly into various meal plans.
• Nutritious: With wholesome ingredients like avocados and cucumbers, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or herbs to make this salad your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your preparation is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows you to easily smash the cucumbers and chop other ingredients finely.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping while protecting your countertops.
• Medium-sized mixing bowl: The right size bowl ensures you have enough space to toss all ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and dry the cucumbers well. Chop each cucumber in half. Place each half on a cutting board, then use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash each one. After smashing, chop them into 1-inch pieces and place them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add Avocado and Other Ingredients

Peel the avocado, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. Next, include all remaining salad ingredients such as feta cheese, pistachios, dill, and chives in the same bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until emulsified.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Toss everything gently until well combined. Serve immediately! For an extra touch of freshness, consider adding more herbs on top before serving.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual meal, here are some great serving ideas.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with whole grain pita bread for a satisfying, nutritious option.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

With Grilled Meats

• This salad is perfect with grilled lamb skewers for a fresh contrast.
• Enjoy it next to beef fajitas to balance the flavors.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include this salad on a platter with hummus, baba ganoush, and olives.
• Add some toasted pita chips for extra crunch.

On Top of Grain Bowls

• Use it as a vibrant topping over quinoa or farro bowls.
• Mix in additional veggies or proteins for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

To elevate your smashed cucumber salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose the right cucumbers: Opt for Persian or English cucumbers for their crispness and minimal seeds.
• Add more herbs: Fresh herbs like mint can bring an exciting twist to the flavor profile.
• Make ahead: Prepare the salad an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity based on your preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish provides a hearty base, balancing the lightness of the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and earthy flavors alongside the fresh taste of cucumbers.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans create a satisfying vegetarian option.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer a delightful contrast in texture while adding sweetness to the meal.
6. Tabbouleh Salad: This parsley-based salad enhances the Mediterranean flair with its brightness and zesty flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong type of cucumber: Persian or English cucumbers are ideal for this salad. Regular cucumbers can be too watery and seedy.
• Not smashing the cucumbers enough: Make sure to smash the cucumbers well. This helps release their juices and creates a better texture for the salad.
• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste! Proper seasoning enhances all the flavors in your salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Use just enough dressing to coat the ingredients without drowning them. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh dill and chives add essential flavor! Don’t leave them out; they are key to achieving that vibrant taste.
• Letting it sit too long before serving: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Allowing it to sit can lead to excess water from the cucumbers, making it less enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods as cucumbers can absorb odors.

Freezing Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it contains fresh ingredients that do not thaw well.
• For best flavor and texture, enjoy fresh.

Reheating Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• Oven: This salad is best served cold, but if you want to serve it warm, gently heat in an oven at a low temperature.
• Microwave: Use cautiously; heat in short bursts of 15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat, stirring gently to avoid cooking the ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill:

What is Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a refreshing dish made with smashed cucumbers, creamy avocado, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs.

Can I customize my Smashed Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or nuts like cherry tomatoes or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

How do I pick good cucumbers for my salad?

Look for firm, dark green cucumbers with no blemishes. Persian cucumbers are particularly crunchy and sweet.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but it’s best served fresh. If made in advance, store without dressing until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that makes it perfect for any meal. Its lightness pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Customize it with your favorite herbs or nuts for a personal touch that suits your taste!