Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad Fresh and Light Dish

Looking for a tasty dish that’s fresh and easy to make? You’re in the right place! This Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is perfect for any meal. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta, it’s a salad that shines. In this post, I'll share simple steps, ingredient tips, and fun variations to keep your taste buds excited. Let’s dive in and make a dish you'll love!

Ingredients

List of ingredients

- 2 large cucumbers, diced into bite-sized pieces

- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced into similar size

- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed for texture

- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped for a mild sweetness

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for freshness

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor

- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for tanginess

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano for a hint of earthiness

- Salt and black pepper to taste

Measurement details

Use two large cucumbers. These will give you a crunchy base. For the tomatoes, choose three ripe ones. Their sweetness makes the salad shine. You need one cup of feta cheese. Crumbled or cubed, both work well. A quarter red onion adds a gentle sweetness. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish with color. Use two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. It adds depth and richness. For tang, add one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. One teaspoon of dried oregano brings an earthy flavor. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Substitutions and alternatives

You can swap cucumbers for zucchini if you want a different twist. Cherry tomatoes work great if you want a burst of flavor. For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan feta. Red onion can be replaced with green onions for a milder taste. If you don't have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a nice alternative. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can replace parsley for a unique flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation overview

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This salad is quick and easy to make. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes total.

Mixing the salad ingredients

1. Take two large cucumbers. Dice them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Next, grab three ripe tomatoes. Dice them to match the cucumber size.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers and diced tomatoes.

4. Now, add one cup of crumbled or cubed feta cheese.

5. Chop a quarter of a red onion finely. Add it for a mild sweetness.

6. Finally, add a quarter cup of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of flavor.

Making the dressing

1. In a small bowl, pour two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

2. Add one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.

3. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano for an earthy touch.

4. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

6. Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture.

7. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the feta stays mostly intact.

8. Let the salad rest for about ten minutes to help the flavors mix.

9. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

Best practices for ingredient selection

When making cucumber tomato feta salad, choose fresh ingredients for the best taste. Look for firm cucumbers without blemishes. Ripe tomatoes should feel slightly soft and smell sweet. For feta, select a block or crumbled version with a bright white color. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, so pick vibrant green leaves.

Serving suggestions for presentation

To make your salad shine, serve it in a large, shallow bowl. This style allows the colors to pop. You can add extra crumbled feta on top for visual appeal. A light sprinkle of fresh parsley adds freshness and color. For a zesty touch, place a lemon slice on the side.

Flavor enhancement tips

To boost the flavor, let the salad rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the dressing soak into the veggies. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like a bolder flavor, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes.

Variations

Adding proteins for a filling meal

You can easily make this salad more filling by adding protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work well. Simply cube your protein of choice and mix it in with the cucumbers and tomatoes. This addition adds heartiness and keeps you satisfied longer.

Seasonal ingredient swaps

Feel free to swap ingredients based on what’s fresh and in season. In summer, sweet corn or bell peppers can add crunch and flavor. In fall, try roasted butternut squash for some warmth. These swaps keep the salad exciting and highlight seasonal produce.

Flavorful herb alternatives

While parsley is fresh and bright, other herbs can change the taste. Basil adds a sweet touch, while mint gives a refreshing zing. Dill brings a unique flavor that pairs well with feta. Experiment to find your favorite combination and add a personal twist.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers

After enjoying your Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh and tasty. Place the container in the fridge. Be sure to consume it within a few days to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Shelf life information

The salad stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the cucumbers may lose their crunch. The tomatoes can also become mushy. Check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If it looks or smells funny, it’s best to throw it away.

Re-serving ideas for leftovers

Leftover salad can become a fun snack or side dish. You can mix it into cooked grains like quinoa or rice. This adds a filling twist to your meal. You can also top grilled chicken or fish with the salad for a light dinner. Another idea is to stuff it into pita bread for a tasty wrap.

FAQs

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, replace feta cheese with a plant-based cheese. You could also use tofu for creaminess. This swap keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Use a little lemon juice for added zing. You won’t miss the cheese!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time! Just mix all the veggies and dressing. Store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving. This keeps the salad crisp and fresh. It is best enjoyed within a day or two.

What can I serve with Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with pita bread and hummus. It complements a hearty soup or a light sandwich too. The salad's freshness balances rich flavors perfectly. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course!

This blog post covered how to create a delicious Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad. We explored essential ingredients, precise measurements, and substitutes. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparation and mixing. The tips provided help with ingredient choices and presentation. We discussed variations for added protein and seasonal swaps. Plus, I highlighted storage tips for leftovers.

In conclusion, this salad is fresh, easy to make, and very adaptable. Enjoy making it your own!