Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a refreshing dish that you can whip up in just 10 minutes! Perfect for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or even as a light lunch, this salad features crunchy cucumbers and creamy avocado, making it both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of feta and fresh herbs adds a unique flavor profile that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cucumbers, herbs, and avocado ensures a dish full of flavor and nutrients.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
• Light and Healthy: Low in calories yet high in healthy fats from the avocado, this salad is a guilt-free choice.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season!

Tools and Preparation

To make this salad, gather your tools and prepare everything needed for easy assembly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Medium-sized bowl
• Glass jar or bowl for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to smash and chop the cucumbers without damaging your counters.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when chopping vegetables, making preparation quick and easy.

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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 onto a cutting board. Use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash each cucumber. After smashing, chop them into 1-inch pieces and place them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add Avocado

Peel the avocado and chop it. Add the chopped avocado to the bowl with the smashed cucumber pieces.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all other salad ingredients—crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, dill, chives—to the same bowl with cucumbers and avocado.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar or bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients (extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic) and whisk well until emulsified.

Step 5: Toss & Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Enjoy immediately! A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance presentation.

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is not only easy to make but also deliciously satisfying. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for any occasion!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Smashed cucumber salad is versatile and can be paired with various meals. Its refreshing taste complements many dishes, making it an ideal choice for different occasions.

As a Side Dish

• It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or turkey, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a light and colorful meal.

On Top of Toast

• Spread on toasted whole-grain bread or pita for a delicious appetizer.
• Add extra feta on top for a richer flavor.

In a Wrap

• Use as a filling in lettuce wraps or tortillas with your choice of protein for a satisfying lunch.
• This adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

As a Snack

• Enjoy it alone as a healthy snack option.
• Pair with whole grain crackers or veggie sticks for added texture.

How to Perfect Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

To achieve the best smashed cucumber salad, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose fresh cucumbers: Select firm cucumbers for the best texture and flavor in your salad.
• Use ripe avocados: A perfectly ripe avocado will add creaminess that balances the crunch of the cucumbers.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity to suit your preference before serving.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added depth of flavor.

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

Smashed cucumber salad is delightful on its own but also shines when paired with other dishes. Here are some tasty side options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the freshness of the salad beautifully.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf loaded with vegetables makes a nutritious side that meshes well with this dish.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tangy salad perfectly.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and tomatoes provides another layer of flavor beside the cucumber salad.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, veggies, or meat create an exciting presentation along with your salad.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic serve as a great low-carb option.

Enjoy making this delicious Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill and exploring all its serving possibilities!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is easy, but small mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Choose Persian or English cucumbers for the best taste and texture. Regular cucumbers can be watery and less flavorful.

• Not smashing the cucumbers properly: Ensure you smash the cucumbers firmly enough to break them apart, which allows the flavors to meld better in the salad.

• Forgetting to season: Don’t skip adding salt and pepper. These basic seasonings enhance all the flavors in your salad.

• Overdressing or underdressing: Find a balance with your dressing. Too much can make it soggy, while too little might leave it bland. Taste as you go!

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh dill and chives are essential for a vibrant flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness.

• Serving immediately: This salad benefits from resting for a few minutes after mixing, allowing flavors to combine beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep in the fridge at all times to maintain its crunchiness.

Freezing Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as cucumbers lose their texture when thawed.
• Instead, prepare fresh portions as needed.

Reheating Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• Oven: Not applicable for this salad; serve cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; best served chilled.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; enjoy fresh for best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I use different cheese in my Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if desired.

How do I make this Smashed Cucumber Salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe?

Persian or English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and crisp texture, which enhances the salad’s overall taste.

Can I add more vegetables to my Smashed Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding bell peppers, tomatoes, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

The salad is best eaten within 1-2 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is light, refreshing, and perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Try making it as a side dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a quick snack!