Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. It’s so easy to whip up and can be paired with just about anything, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

What makes this salad truly special is its lightness and vibrant taste. The crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing blend together beautifully, creating a salad that feels both indulgent and healthy. Plus, it takes only 10 minutes to prepare—perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick Prep: In just 10 minutes, you can have this delightful salad ready to serve!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cucumbers, feta, and fresh herbs gives a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of smashed cucumbers, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for an easy weeknight meal or serve it at your next gathering.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add protein: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Change up the cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or even vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Mix in more veggies: Throw in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Smash the Cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers well. Chop each cucumber in half. Place each half on a cutting board and use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash them down gently. This step is crucial because smashing releases their juicy goodness! After smashing, chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces and add them to a medium-sized bowl. If your cucumbers are larger, feel free to cut them into quarters first.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado

Next, peel your avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the avocado into the bowl with the smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the cucumbers!

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives to that delicious cucumber-avocado mix. These ingredients will not only enhance flavors but also add wonderful textures.

Step 4: Whisk Up Your Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, combine all of your dressing ingredients—extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well combined. This dressing will bring all those lovely flavors together!

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated. For an extra touch of freshness, I like to sprinkle more herbs on top before serving. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

With just these few simple steps, you’ve created a beautiful Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

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

Making this salad is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate it from good to unforgettable!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are perfect for this salad because they are crisp and have fewer seeds. If using an English cucumber, be sure to slice it thinly for optimal smashing.

• Fresh herbs are key: Use fresh dill and chives instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and brightness that dried ones can’t replicate.

• Master the smash: When smashing the cucumbers, use enough pressure to break them open without completely pulverizing them. This helps retain their crunch while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients according to your taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice; for a touch of sweetness, increase the honey.

• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before serving allows all the flavors to marry beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Here are some fantastic ways to serve it that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Extra dill or chives: A sprinkle of fresh dill or chives on top adds a vibrant green color and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Crushed pistachios: A few extra crushed pistachios can provide added crunch and a pop of color, making your dish look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection pair wonderfully with this salad, providing protein that complements its lightness.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with veggies balances out the freshness of the cucumber salad while adding hearty texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds warmth and depth to your meal, creating a satisfying contrast with the coolness of the salad.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips makes for a great appetizer alongside this refreshing salad, enhancing your meal’s Mediterranean flair.

Enjoy crafting this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as part of your next gathering or as a delightful lunch option. Its vibrant flavors and textures are sure to please everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in minutes, making it an ideal addition to your weekly lunch or dinner rotation. Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy the fresh flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the cucumbers and avocado losing their texture once thawed.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, so aim to make just what you’ll eat within a few days.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold and doesn’t require reheating.
• Simply take it out of the fridge before serving and give it a gentle toss to recombine the ingredients.

FAQs

Have questions about this refreshing salad? Here are some common inquiries:

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

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

What can I serve with Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish for any Mediterranean-inspired meal. It adds a refreshing touch!

Can I substitute feta cheese in Smashed Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative that mimics feta’s texture.

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

For extra flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or olives. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also bring a delightful kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! Its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients are sure to brighten your day. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or as part of a larger spread, I know you’re going to love it. Happy cooking!