Description
This Refreshing Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta Bliss is a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries with crisp cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Tossed in a zesty lemon-balsamic dressing with a hint of honey, this salad is perfect as a light side or a refreshing snack, ideal for warm weather or anytime you crave a nutritious burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the main ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sliced strawberries, thinly sliced cucumber, and very thinly sliced red onion, creating the fresh base of the salad.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and flavorful.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing evenly over the combined fruit and vegetables, then gently toss everything together to coat each piece thoroughly without bruising the strawberries.
- Add herbs and cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese along with the chopped fresh mint and optional basil over the top of the salad, then toss lightly one more time to distribute these final flavors delicately throughout.
- Let the flavors meld: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving, giving the ingredients time to blend and intensify in taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For extra crunch and texture, add a handful of toasted sliced almonds or chopped pistachios just before serving.
- If preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the crumbled feta cheese separate and add it right before serving to maintain its freshness.
- You can substitute lime juice for lemon juice to introduce a slightly different citrus note.
