10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill Recipe

If you’re searching for a vibrant, refreshing dish that comes together in a flash, then the 10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill is an absolute must-try. This salad perfectly balances crisp smashed cucumbers with creamy avocado, tangy feta, and the bright freshness of dill and chives. Dressed in a zesty olive oil and lemon vinaigrette, it’s the kind of simple yet sophisticated salad that effortlessly elevates summer lunches, weeknight dinners, or even as a colorful side at your next gathering. Let’s dive into why this recipe has won a special place in my heart and kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this 10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill plays a crucial role, contributing freshness, creaminess, crunch, or a pop of flavor. They’re easy to find and combine beautifully without any fuss, making this salad a quick pleasure to whip up anytime.

• Persian or English cucumbers: The crisp, mild cucumbers provide the refreshing base and respond perfectly to smashing for extra texture.
• Ripe avocado: Adds luscious creaminess that beautifully contrasts the crunchy cucumber.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Brings a salty tang that elevates the flavor profile tremendously.
• Chopped pistachios: Offer a delightful crunch and a subtle nuttiness that’s so satisfying.
• Fresh dill and chives: These herbs give an aromatic, fresh zest that brightens the whole salad.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Acts as a rich, smooth base for the dressing, carrying all the flavors together.
• Lemon juice: Provides a lively acidity to keep the salad bright and balanced.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the dressing’s flavor.
• Honey: Just a hint of sweetness to round out the tang and spice.
• Garlic cloves: Minced garlic lends a subtle savory punch without overpowering the salad.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all of the natural flavors.

How to Make 10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Step 1: Prepare and Smash the Cucumbers

Start by giving your cucumbers a thorough wash and making sure they’re dry. For ease and the best texture, cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. Then, place the flat side down on your cutting board and gently press down with the flat side of a large knife to smash it. This technique breaks up the cucumber flesh, allowing the dressing and other ingredients to cling beautifully. Chop the smashed cucumbers into roughly 1-inch chunks and drop them into a medium-sized bowl. If you have larger cucumbers, slicing them horizontally before smashing helps ensure everything’s evenly sized and easier to handle.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Avocado and Fresh Ingredients

Next, peel and chop your ripe avocado, then add it directly to the bowl with the cucumbers. This creaminess will make the salad feel luxurious and hearty. Toss in the crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, and most of your fresh dill and chives—reserve a little herb for the final garnish. The vibrant green herbs bring fresh color and an aromatic lift that’ll make every bite pop.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small glass jar or bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, tangy dressing. This simple vinaigrette ties the salad ingredients together with a harmonious blend of bright, savory, and slightly sweet notes.

Step 4: Toss and Enjoy!

Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients and give everything a gentle but thorough toss to coat every piece. The dressing clings to the smashed cucumbers and the creamy avocado perfectly. Before serving, sprinkle the reserved fresh herbs on top for a beautiful finishing touch and an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve 10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or chopped pistachios on top adds texture and pops of flavor that make the salad a feast for both eyes and palate. A few extra sprigs of dill or chives also provide a fresh, herbaceous aroma that you’ll love.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even falafel for a summery meal. It also works beautifully alongside sandwiches, grain bowls, or as a refreshing appetizer at your next dinner party.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in small glass jars or ramekins for individual portions at a gathering. You can also layer it over a bed of mixed greens or serve it alongside warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the avocado, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but adding a squeeze of extra lemon juice before storing can help prevent browning.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the cucumber’s water content and the fresh herbs, which lose their texture upon thawing. I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

No reheating needed here! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature to showcase its crisp and creamy components.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian or English?

Absolutely! Just be aware that regular cucumbers often have more seeds and a higher water content, so it’s best to remove seeds if they’re large and adjust the smashing technique gently to avoid excess juice.

Is it possible to make the dressing without mustard?

Yes, but the Dijon mustard adds a lovely depth and helps emulsify the dressing. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with a tiny bit of mayonnaise or just omit it altogether, though the flavor will be lighter.

Can I substitute the feta with another cheese?

Feta’s salty tang is signature here, but you can try goat cheese or cotija for a different creamy and slightly tangy profile. Just crumble it finely to blend well.

How do I keep the avocado from browning quickly?

Using ripe avocado and tossing it promptly with the lemon in the dressing helps prevent browning. Keeping the salad covered and refrigerated when not serving also slows oxidation.

Are pistachios necessary, or can I use another nut?

Pistachios add a unique crunch and color contrast, but you can substitute with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different nutty note.

Final Thoughts

This 10 Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad – With Feta and Dill has become one of my go-to quick dishes whenever I want something fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free. It’s a beautiful combination of textures and tastes that can brighten any meal in just a few minutes. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen too!

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