If you’re craving a refreshing and simple dish, this Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad is for you. With crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta, every bite bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients! In just a few easy steps, you can whip up this colorful salad perfect for any meal. Let’s dive into the fresh flavors and bright ingredients that make this salad a winner!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large cucumbers, diced
– 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Gathering fresh ingredients is key to this salad. The cucumbers bring a cool crunch. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Feta cheese gives a creamy, salty bite. Red onion adds a sharp kick. Fresh mint leaves brighten the overall flavor. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar create a rich dressing. Dijon mustard ties it all together, adding depth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: About 150 calories
– Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, and calcium
– Health benefits of main ingredients:
– Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories.
– Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants. Good for heart health.
– Feta Cheese: Source of protein and calcium.
– Mint Leaves: Aid digestion and add freshness.
– Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that may lower cholesterol.
This salad is not just tasty; it’s also good for you! Each ingredient brings its own health benefits, making it a smart choice for any meal. For the full recipe, check out my other sections.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Start by taking two large cucumbers. Dice them into bite-sized pieces. Next, grab three cups of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. In a big mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers and halved tomatoes. They should mix well. Now, add in half a cup of crumbled feta cheese. This will bring a creamy texture. Slice a quarter of a red onion thinly. Toss this into the bowl too. The onion adds a nice crunch.
Making the Dressing
In a small bowl, take three tablespoons of olive oil. Add two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for tanginess. Then, mix in one teaspoon of Dijon mustard. This gives your dressing a kick! Whisk everything together until it blends well. Now, season your dressing with salt and pepper. Adjust the amount to your taste, but remember, a little salt goes a long way.
Tossing the Salad
Pour your dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture. Make sure to coat everything evenly. Then, take a quarter cup of fresh mint leaves and chop them. Add these mint leaves to your salad. They bring a refreshing flavor. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are mixed. Let the salad rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. For the full recipe, check the instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Salad
To make the best cucumber tomato feta salad, you must let the flavors meld. After you toss the salad, let it sit for about 15 minutes. This time allows the dressing to soak into the veggies. You’ll taste the difference.
Next, adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a little more zing, add more salt or pepper. You can also try a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving, presentation matters. Use a large, clear bowl to show off the bright colors of your salad. This makes it look inviting and fresh.
For an eye-catching garnish, sprinkle extra mint leaves on top. You can also add a few whole cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. These small touches make your salad stand out on any table.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your delicious, fresh, and flavorful cucumber tomato feta salad!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the cheese in this salad. Goat cheese adds a creamy touch and tangy flavor. It pairs well with the veggies. You can also try mozzarella for a milder taste.
Adding avocados gives the salad a rich, smooth texture. They are packed with healthy fats. Diced bell peppers add crunch and a pop of color. They make the salad even more vibrant.
Dressing Alternatives
If you want a new twist, try different vinegars. Red wine vinegar brings a bold flavor. Apple cider vinegar adds a slight sweetness. You can even use lemon juice for a zesty kick.
For a creamy dressing, mix yogurt or sour cream with the olive oil. This adds richness and a nice tang. You can also use store-bought ranch or Caesar dressing if you’re in a hurry.
Explore these variations to make your Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad unique. For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your salad fresh, store leftovers in the fridge right away. Use an airtight container to seal in flavors. If you have any extra dressing, keep it separate to prevent sogginess. You can save the salad for later, but it tastes best fresh.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your salad can last about 2-3 days. After that, it might not taste as good. Watch for any signs of spoilage, like a wilted look or off smells. If the cucumbers become mushy or the tomatoes lose their color, it’s time to toss it. Enjoy your Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad while it’s fresh for the best experience!
FAQs
Can I make Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. For best flavor, prep the salad a few hours before serving. Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat. This way, the salad stays crisp and fresh. If you want to make it a day in advance, store it in the fridge. Just remember to add the mint leaves right before serving for the best taste.
What other ingredients pair well with this salad?
You can add many tasty ingredients to this salad. Try adding avocado for creaminess. Bell peppers add a nice crunch and color. Olives bring in a salty bite. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also work well. They give extra flavor. You can even sprinkle some sunflower seeds for added texture. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! To prepare in bulk, chop your veggies and store them in airtight containers. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness. You can mix the salad together just before eating. This helps keep the salad fresh and tasty all week. If you want to eat it later, just add a pinch of salt and pepper before serving.
This blog post covered a fresh cucumber tomato feta salad. We explored each ingredient and shared key health benefits. I provided step-by-step instructions for making it, plus tips for perfecting your dish and presentation. Variations let you customize to your taste. Proper storage information ensures you keep leftovers fresh.
In conclusion, this salad is easy and delicious. Enjoy it as a side or a meal. You can mix things up while keeping it healthy. Happy cooking!
