Cucumber And Feta Salad
A refreshing cucumber and feta salad with olives and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or as a side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cucumber, onion slices, olives, and feta cheese in a bowl. Toss gently to mix.
- Stir olive oil, white wine vinegar, ground pepper, and salt to taste in a cup.
- Pour dressing over cucumber mixture and set aside for 10 minutes for flavors to blend.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes or bell peppers as a substitute for cucumbers. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mix in some Greek yogurt with the feta. To enhance the taste, add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. This salad is versatile, so feel free to customize it with ingredients from your favorite Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cucumber and Feta Salad as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean spread. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Artichokes-Maltese or Roasted Fresh Vegetables. For a light lunch, enjoy it with pita bread or as a topping for Spinach Wrap-Ups.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. If you're reheating, avoid using a microwave as it may wilt the vegetables; instead, enjoy it cold or at room temperature for a refreshing taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber And Feta Salad contains roughly 69 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. If you need to store it for longer, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
What type of olives should I use?
Greek black olives are traditional for this recipe, but you can also use Kalamata olives for a bolder flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, green olives can be a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the salt accordingly based on the saltiness of the olives.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
This salad contains feta cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta or replacing it with a plant-based cheese alternative. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and refreshing salad that fits into your vegan recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).