Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

This Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a vibrant and refreshing dish that you can whip up in just 10 minutes! It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light side to accompany your favorite meals. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates a delightful flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins or stand alone as a healthy snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh herbs like dill and chives elevates the dish, adding bright flavors that complement the cucumbers beautifully.
• Healthy & Satisfying: Packed with nutritious ingredients like avocados and pistachios, this salad is not only delicious but also good for you.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or on its own as a light meal; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts to make this salad uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar for dressing

Importance of Each Tool

• Large cutting board: Provides ample space for chopping the cucumbers and avocado without making a mess.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when smashing and chopping the cucumbers, helping release their refreshing juices.
• Medium-sized mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients easily without overflow.
• Whisk or jar for dressing: A whisk allows you to emulsify the dressing properly, while a jar makes it easy to mix and store any leftovers.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, gather the following 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

1. Wash and dry the cucumbers well before chopping each one in half.
2. Place each cucumber half onto a cutting board. Use the flat side of your knife along with your hand to smash each cucumber half gently.
3. Chop smashed cucumbers into 1-inch pieces and transfer them into a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Add Avocado & Other Ingredients

1. Peel the avocado, chop it, and add it to the bowl with the smashed cucumbers.
2. Include crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, fresh dill, and chives into the same bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a glass jar or small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk well until emulsified.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the medium-sized bowl.
2. Toss everything together gently until well combined.
3. Enjoy immediately! Optionally sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top for added flair.

Now you have a fantastic Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill ready to delight your taste buds!

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Smashed cucumber salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Its fresh flavors and crunchy texture make it an excellent addition to any dining experience.

As a Refreshing Side

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a light and satisfying meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables to balance the richness of your main dish.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Use it as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for added crunch and flavor.
• Combine with hummus spread on pita for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired snack.

As an Appetizer

• Serve chilled in small bowls as an appetizer at gatherings.
• Top with extra feta and dill for a gourmet touch.

With Whole Grains

• Add it to a bowl of quinoa or farro for a wholesome, nutritious meal.
• Mix it into brown rice for added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

To take your smashed cucumber salad to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cucumbers and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to modify the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences; add more lemon juice for tanginess or honey for sweetness.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes can improve the flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Nuts: Substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds if you prefer different textures.
• Add Crunch: For extra crunch, consider adding radishes or bell peppers to the mix.

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

This refreshing salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its lightness. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers bring smoky flavor that balances well with the fresh salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A herbed quinoa pilaf adds nutty flavors while keeping the meal light and healthy.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a wonderful contrast to the tartness of the salad.
4. Lentil Soup: A warm lentil soup provides protein and comfort, creating a satisfying meal when paired with the salad.
5. Tabbouleh: This parsley-based salad adds a zesty touch, further enhancing your Mediterranean-themed dinner.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters offer texture and flavor that complements the freshness of the cucumber salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a smashed cucumber salad can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Not all cucumbers are created equal! Opt for Persian or English cucumbers for a crunchier texture and better flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
• Skipping the smashing step: Smashed cucumbers absorb flavors better. Don’t skip this step; it enhances taste and texture.
• Not seasoning properly: A dash of salt and pepper can bring your salad to life. Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
• Forgetting to chill: Letting your salad sit in the fridge for a bit allows flavors to meld. A quick chill can elevate the dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover smashed cucumber salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 days in the fridge for best quality.

Freezing Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• Freezing is not recommended due to cucumber’s high water content, which may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

• Oven: Not applicable, as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Not recommended; enjoy it fresh from the fridge!
• Stovetop: Again, not suitable for reheating; serve cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill.

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

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a light lunch spread with pita bread.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like mint or parsley, or swap feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How long does Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill last?

It lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used in this smashed cucumber salad are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or nuts. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal any time of year. Give it a try, and let your taste buds rejoice!

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Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill, a delightful dish that comes together in just 10 minutes! This refreshing salad features crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, making it a perfect addition to summer barbecues or as a light side for various meals. Its versatility allows it to shine as a standalone snack or pair beautifully with grilled chicken or turkey. Enhanced with fresh herbs like dill and chives, this salad offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed on busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. Wash and dry cucumbers, then chop in half. Smash each half gently and chop into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a medium bowl, combine smashed cucumbers with chopped avocado, feta cheese, pistachios, dill, and chives.
3. In a jar or small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg