Can I make smashed cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the smashed cucumber salad a few hours in advance. However, to keep the cucumbers crisp, it's best to keep the dressing and cucumbers separate until you're ready to serve. Once dressed, cucumbers will begin to release water, which could make the salad soggy if left for too long.

What are some other variations of smashed cucumber salad?

You can easily customize this salad by swapping out ingredients. For example, try using crumbled goat cheese instead of feta, or add some chopped tomatoes for extra flavor. If you’re looking for more protein, adding chickpeas or grilled chicken can turn this salad into a complete meal.

Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this smashed cucumber salad with feta is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels of your feta cheese and any additional ingredients you may add to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

How long will the smashed cucumber salad stay fresh in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. However, the cucumbers will lose their crunch as they release more water. For the best texture, it’s recommended to consume the salad within the first day of making it.

Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta – 15-Minute Healthy Recipe

Name: Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large cucumber, smashed; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Description

This smashed cucumber salad with feta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With fresh cucumbers, tangy feta, and aromatic dill, this salad offers a refreshing burst of flavor. The added pistachios provide a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large cucumber, smashed
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the cucumbers by washing them thoroughly and cutting off the ends. Slice them in half lengthwise and gently smash them using the side of a knife.
Sprinkle the smashed cucumber pieces with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry with paper towels.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the smashed cucumber with crumbled feta, fresh dill, and chopped pistachios.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for extra flavor infusion.

Notes

For extra crunch, lightly salt the cucumber slices before letting them sit. This will help the cucumbers maintain their crisp texture.
If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and toss the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming watery.
Feel free to substitute pistachios with almonds or walnuts for a different texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg