Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish to brighten your day, then this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is just what you need! This trendy salad combines fresh cucumbers with creamy avocado and zesty feta, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s not only quick to whip up but also makes for a fantastic side at family gatherings or a light lunch on busy weeknights. Trust me; once you make this salad, it will become one of your go-to recipes!

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. You can pair it with grilled chicken, serve it alongside roasted veggies, or enjoy it all on its own. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also nourishing for the body!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Light and refreshing: The combination of cucumber, avocado, and herbs creates a salad that feels light yet satisfying.
• Family-friendly appeal: Even the kids will love digging into this colorful dish!
• Versatile side dish: Perfect to accompany any meal or as a standalone snack.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance for an easy grab-and-go option during the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need to create this vibrant dish!

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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some spice: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an added kick.
• Mix up the nuts: Swap pistachios for walnuts or almonds for different flavors and textures.
• Go vegan: Omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Introduce other veggies: Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra crunch and color.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and dry the cucumbers well. Then chop each one in half. Place each half onto a cutting board and use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash each piece gently. This step is important because smashing releases more juices from the cucumbers, making them even tastier! Chop them into 1-inch pieces and place them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add the Avocado

Next, peel your ripe avocado, chop it up into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the bowl with your smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado complements the crunchiness of the cucumber beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all of our flavorful salad ingredients—crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, dill, and chives—into that same bowl. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor that harmonizes perfectly together.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar or small bowl, combine all of your dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is emulsified. This dressing brings all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 5: Toss & Enjoy!

Pour that lovely dressing over your salad mixture and toss everything together gently but thoroughly. I like to sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top before serving for an added burst of color! Enjoy your Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill right away or chill it in the fridge for later—either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

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

Creating the perfect smashed cucumber salad is all about technique and fresh ingredients, so here are some friendly tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Persian or English cucumbers have a delicate skin and fewer seeds, making them perfect for smashing and adding a refreshing crunch.

• Smash with care: When smashing the cucumbers, use just enough pressure to break them apart without turning them into mush. This helps maintain texture while allowing the dressing to soak in.

• Fresh herbs make a difference: Don’t skimp on the dill and chives! Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and aroma that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Make ahead for deeper flavor: If you have time, let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Adding ingredients like sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes can introduce new flavors and colors to your salad.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully at your next meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of additional chopped pistachios on top adds a satisfying crunch and complements the creamy avocado.
• Extra dill sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh dill placed artfully on top will enhance the presentation and highlight the herb’s flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of freshness that guests can squeeze over their servings.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy marinated chicken skewers are a hearty addition that pairs perfectly with the lightness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with veggies provides a nutritious complement that balances well with the creamy textures in this salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the tangy flavors of feta and dill in your salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: A classic pairing, serving hummus alongside crispy pita chips offers a delightful dip option that rounds out your meal.

Enjoy crafting this refreshing smashed cucumber salad, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! Its fresh flavors make it an ideal side dish or light lunch that you can enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
• If possible, store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the cucumbers and avocados do not thaw well.
• For best results, prepare only what you plan to consume within a few days.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer it warmed, gently toss it in a pan over low heat for just a minute or two, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and mix them just before serving. It stays fresh for a few days in the fridge.

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

You can use a plant-based feta alternative or even crumbled tofu with spices to mimic the flavor.

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

Consider adding chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled chicken substitutes like tofu or tempeh for extra protein without sacrificing flavor.

Is this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill vegan-friendly?

To create a vegan version, simply substitute feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely while adding extra herbs for flavor.

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

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, fish alternatives, or as a refreshing side to grain bowls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to incorporate fresh flavors into your meals. Whether you serve it at a gathering or as part of your weekly meal prep, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts—I would love to hear how yours turns out!