Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing

Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing is a fresh and flavorful side dish perfect for pairing with grilled foods. This dish uses minimal ingredients but packs a significant flavor punch. The delightful crunch of cucumbers mixed with the creamy feta cheese and the nutty essence of roasted pistachios make this salad not only a treat to your taste buds but also a nutritious addition to any meal. The addition of fresh dill and a zesty lemon dressing elevates the flavors further, making it an excellent accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, or any hot-off-the-grill items.

Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing Ingredients

▪️ 1 lb. English cucumbers
▪️ Kosher salt and black pepper
▪️ 4 oz. feta cheese
▪️ 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
▪️ 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
▪️ ¼ cup finely chopped roasted pistachios
▪️ ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill

How to make Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers. Using a knife, cut off the ends of the English cucumbers. Then, place them on a cutting board and smash them slightly using the flat side of the knife, creating a rustic texture. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Season the Cucumbers. Place the cucumber pieces in a bowl and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing. In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the seasoned cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped roasted pistachios, and finely chopped fresh dill. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad.

Step 5: Mix and Serve. Gently toss all the ingredients until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately or let sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Overview of Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing

Category	Details
Preparation Time	15 minutes
Cooking Time	None
Servings	4
Nutritional Information	Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 8g, Fats: 20g
Energy	940 kJ (225 cal)
Main Ingredients	English cucumbers, feta cheese, roasted pistachios, fresh dill
Sauce Ingredients	Extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice
Cooking Method	None (no cooking required)
Meal Categories	Side Dish, Salad, Summer Dish
Key Flavors	Fresh, creamy, zesty
Texture	Crunchy, creamy
Dietary Information	Vegetarian, gluten-free
Allergen Information	Contains dairy (feta cheese), nuts (pistachios)
Storage Tips	Best served fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Serving Suggestions	Pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches

Fun Facts about Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta Dressing

▪️ Smashed Cucumber Salad is a popular dish in many Eastern cuisines, particularly in China and Japan, where it is commonly flavored with garlic and rice vinegar.
▪️ Feta cheese has been a staple in the Mediterranean diet for thousands of years and is known for its crumbly texture and tangy taste.
▪️ Roasted pistachios add a unique depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch to salads, making them a perfect addition to this recipe.