Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

If you’re looking for a refreshing, quick dish that packs a punch of flavor, then this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is just the ticket! This vibrant salad is not only easy to whip up in 10 minutes but also brings together a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a stunning side at family gatherings. Plus, it’s so satisfying that you might just find yourself making it every week!

What makes this salad special? The crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing come together beautifully to create a dish that is light yet filling. The addition of feta and fresh herbs elevates the flavors even more, making it a standout recipe in my collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this salad ready in just 10 minutes—perfect for those last-minute meals!
• Deliciously Fresh: The combination of cucumbers, dill, and lemon juice creates a refreshing flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, fish, or chicken—making it ideal for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like avocado and nuts, it’s a nutritious option you can feel good about serving.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components in advance and combine them when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one adds its own unique flavor and texture to the 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 Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for an added protein boost.
• Change Up the Nuts: If pistachios aren’t your thing, try walnuts or sunflower seeds instead.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

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 cucumber in half. Place each half on a cutting board, then use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to gently smash each one. This step helps release their juices while adding texture. After smashing, chop them into 1-inch pieces and place them in a medium-sized bowl. If you’re using larger cucumbers, cut them into quarters before smashing!

Step 2: Mix in the Avocado

Next, peel your ripe avocado and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the avocado to the bowl with the smashed cucumbers. The creaminess of the avocado complements the crunch of the cucumbers beautifully—trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those lovely flavors! Toss in crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives right into the bowl with your cucumber mixture. Each ingredient contributes something special—don’t hesitate to mix them all together.

Step 4: Whisk Up Your Dressing

In a glass jar or bowl, combine all of your dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is emulsified—that means blended smoothly together! This dressing will bring everything together with its zesty kick.

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Pour the freshly made dressing over your salad mix. Gently toss everything until well-coated. I love adding an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving for that pop of color and flavor!

And there you have it—a delicious Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that’s ready to enjoy! Whether you’re serving it as a side or having it as a light lunch on its own, I’m sure you’ll love every bite!

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

Making the perfect smashed cucumber salad is all about technique and freshness, so let’s ensure you nail it every time!

• Choose the right cucumbers: Opting for Persian or English cucumbers ensures a crisp texture and mild flavor, making them ideal for smashing and mixing with other ingredients.

• Smash gently but firmly: When you’re smashing the cucumbers, use enough pressure to break them open without turning them into mush. This creates the perfect bite-sized pieces that hold onto the dressing beautifully.

• Let it chill before serving: If you have time, allow your salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors meld together deliciously, enhancing the overall taste.

• Experiment with herbs: While dill and chives are fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint to give your salad a unique twist!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and even acidity levels in your dressing until it perfectly suits your taste buds.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This smashed cucumber salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience! You can serve it in various ways that will impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional chopped dill or chives on top adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
• Lemon zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top before serving brightens up the dish even more and adds a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish made with cooked quinoa, vegetables, and spices complements the freshness of the cucumber salad perfectly.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of chicken marinated in herbs and grilled provide a protein-packed contrast that pairs beautifully with this light salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds warmth and depth, making for a well-rounded meal alongside your creamy cucumber salad.
• Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft pita bread served with a side of hummus offers a delightful way to scoop up your salad while adding another layer of flavor.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, saving you time during busy days while still enjoying a fresh, delicious salad.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume the salad within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, store the dressing separately to maintain the texture of the cucumbers and avocado.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the cucumbers and avocado after thawing.
• Instead, prepare fresh ingredients when ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served cold.
• If you prefer a warm dish, consider using the salad as a topping for grilled vegetables or grains.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of cucumbers for Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill?

Yes! While Persian or English cucumbers work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that different types may have varying levels of moisture.

How can I make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. There are many delicious dairy-free feta options available today!

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

This vibrant salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a mezze platter with pita and hummus. It also makes a refreshing side for any summer barbecue!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill! It’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or as part of your daily meals, it’s sure to brighten your day. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations!