If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, the Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad blends juicy, sweet strawberries with crisp cucumbers, crumbly tangy feta, and fragrant herbs for a perfect balance of flavors. Every bite bursts with freshness and a delightful contrast of textures that instantly brighten up any meal or gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe just right hinges on simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer—whether it’s the sweetness from strawberries or the creaminess of feta—making the salad as flavorful as it looks.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for maximum sweetness and color.
- 1 English cucumber: Its mild flavor and crisp texture provide a refreshing crunch.
- 2 ounces crumbly feta cheese: Offers a salty tang that complements the fruit and herbs beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons good quality olive oil: Adds a silky richness that brings all the flavors together.
- 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy drizzle to heighten the salad’s complexity.
- 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh mint: Infuses a cool, aromatic burst that refreshes the palate.
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh basil: Adds a peppery, slightly sweet note that ties the salad’s flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits and Cheese
Begin by slicing the strawberries and English cucumber into thin, coin-shaped slices. These thin cuts maximize their exposure and texture once tossed together. Transfer them into a large, low salad bowl and crumble the feta cheese over the top. This layering lets each bite bring a bit of every flavor.
Step 2: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the strawberry and cucumber mixture. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to season gently but effectively. This step is crucial, as the salt helps draw out the natural juices, melding the flavors even more.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Herbs
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh mint and basil across the salad. These herbs add a vibrant color contrast and a fresh fragrance that lifts the entire dish. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle before serving.
How to Serve Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your salad with a few whole mint leaves or basil sprigs. You can also scatter some additional feta crumbs on top just before serving to emphasize its creamy texture.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a light pasta dish. Its fresh flavors act as the perfect foil to richer mains, providing a cool and zesty counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in individual glass jars or over a bed of mixed greens for a stylish twist. You can also layer the ingredients in a tall clear bowl to showcase all the colors and textures, making it a charming centerpiece for summer gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid sogginess, and add it just before serving.
Freezing
Because of the fresh ingredients and delicate textures, freezing this Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe is not recommended. The cucumbers and strawberries lose their crunch and become watery upon thawing.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this salad. It’s designed to be served chilled or at room temperature to highlight the fresh, crisp qualities of its ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumber instead of English cucumber?
Yes, but English cucumbers are preferred because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, which help maintain the salad’s delicate texture and mild flavor.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re avoiding dairy, try a crumbly vegan cheese or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for a similar texture and a bit of richness.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Slice the strawberries and cucumbers just before serving and toss the salad lightly with the dressing at the last moment. Also, avoid storing the salad dressed for long periods.
Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding avocado slices or thinly sliced radishes can introduce new flavors and textures that complement the original recipe wonderfully.
What’s the best way to chop the herbs?
Rough chopping the mint and basil keeps their aroma lively and allows their bright flavors to shine without overpowering the salad.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in every bite. Easy to make, utterly delicious, and bursting with freshness, it’s perfect for warm days or whenever you need a bright, cheerful salad on your table. You’re going to love how it lifts your meals and brings a smile with each forkful.
Print
Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta, Mint, and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing summer salad combines juicy fresh strawberries and crisp English cucumber with crumbly feta cheese, fragrant fresh herbs, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Lightly drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with flaky sea salt, this no-cook salad is a perfect, vibrant dish ideal for warm days and simple entertaining.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 1 English cucumber
- 2 ounces crumbly feta cheese
Dressing and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons good quality olive oil
- 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze
- 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt
Herbs
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruits and Cheese: Slice the strawberries and English cucumber into thin, coin-shaped slices to ensure a perfect texture and bite. Toss these slices together with the crumbly feta cheese and place the mixture into a large, shallow salad bowl for even mixing and presentation.
- Add Dressing and Seasoning: Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the salad mixture. Then sprinkle the flaky sea salt on top to enhance the flavors. Finally, scatter the roughly chopped fresh basil and mint over the salad to add aromatic freshness and color.
- Rest the Salad: Allow the salad to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period lets the flavors meld together, enhancing the taste and texture of the salad for an optimal eating experience.
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours if needed.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it entirely.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic glaze to taste for more or less tanginess.
- To add a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling toasted nuts such as walnuts or almonds.
