Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill Recipe

There is something irresistibly refreshing and vibrant about the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill that makes it a perfect side or light meal any day of the week. Combining crisp smashed cucumbers with creamy avocado, salty feta, fragrant dill, and a punchy, honey-mustard dressing, this salad bursts with flavor and texture in every bite. It’s not just healthy and colorful; it’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple with fresh and wholesome ingredients that bring the salad to life. Each element plays a vital role, whether adding crunch, creaminess, brightness, or that irresistible savory hit.

• 4 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber: Crisp and juicy, these are the base that gives the salad its vibrant crunch.
• 1 medium ripe avocado: Adds buttery smoothness and richness, balancing the sharp feta and tangy dressing.
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Salty and creamy, feta adds a bold, savory dimension.
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios: For a satisfying nutty crunch that surprises the palate.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill: Fragrant and subtly citrusy, dill ties the whole dish together.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives: Mild onion flavor that enhances freshness without overpowering.
• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For a smooth, fruity dressing base that glistens on the salad.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to balance richness.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a gentle bite and helps emulsify the dressing.
• 2 teaspoons honey: A subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
• 2 cloves garlic – peeled and minced: Adds an aromatic kick enhancing the depth of the dish.
• Salt and pepper – to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other ingredients’ best qualities.

How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare the cucumbers

Start by washing and drying your cucumbers thoroughly. Then, cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. With the flat side of your knife and your hand, gently smash each half to break it down and release the juices, creating that signature texture. After smashing, chop into roughly 1-inch pieces. This technique not only softens the cucumbers but also allows the dressing to cling beautifully.

Step 2: Add the creamy avocado

Peel and chop the ripe avocado into bite-sized chunks. Toss these into the bowl with your smashed cucumbers. The richness of the avocado offers a silky contrast to the cool crunch, giving the salad an irresistible balance.

Step 3: Combine the fresh herbs and toppings

Into the same bowl, add the crumbled feta, chopped pistachios, dill, and chives. Each herb brings a layer of freshness and complexity, while the pistachios provide delightful texture and a subtle nuttiness that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4: Whisk together the dressing

In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk vigorously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, slightly thickened texture. This vibrant dressing is the magic that ties every ingredient together with a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Toss and enjoy

Pour your homemade dressing over the cucumber, avocado, and herb mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat every piece. The Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is now ready to serve, bursting with freshness and layered taste.

How to Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of extra fresh dill or chives on top adds a lovely pop of green and an inviting herbal aroma. A few additional crumbled feta pieces or chopped pistachios can provide visual appeal and extra texture, perfect for impressing guests.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete, light meal. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to Mediterranean dishes like pita bread and hummus, or alongside a rich, creamy dip to cut through heavy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a vibrant picnic or potluck, serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to highlight its colorful ingredients. You can also layer it in individual mason jars for a perfectly portioned and Instagram-worthy presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top adds an elegant touch that will wow your dinner guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to maintain the freshness of the cucumbers and herbs. The avocado may brown slightly but stirring gently before serving can freshen it up.

Freezing

Freezing this salad isn’t recommended since cucumbers and avocado lose their texture and become watery when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this salad is designed to be served fresh and chilled, reheating is not advised. The flavors and textures shine brightest when served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian or English cucumbers?

Absolutely! Just be aware that regular cucumbers have more seeds and higher water content, so you might want to remove the seeds if you prefer less moisture in your salad.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your favorite or you have dietary restrictions, try using goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a crumbly firm tofu to maintain a creamy, salty element.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative, and skip honey or substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.

How long does the salad keep its best texture?

For the freshest taste and crunch, consume the salad within 24 hours of preparation. The cucumbers and avocado are best enjoyed soon after making to avoid sogginess or browning.

What if I don’t have fresh dill or chives?

You can substitute with other fresh herbs like parsley, tarragon, or basil. While the flavor profile will change slightly, it will still add a wonderful herbaceous note.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a bright side to your meal or a refreshing dish to enjoy on its own, the Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is a must-try recipe that will quickly become a staple. It’s simple, quick, and bursts with fresh flavors that soothe and excite your palate. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did.

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