If you’re craving a refreshing burst of flavor that celebrates the best of summer, then you absolutely need to try this Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe. Picture juicy, sweet strawberries mingling with crisp cucumber slices, the brightness of fresh mint leaves, tangy feta cheese crumble, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze all coming together for a salad that’s as vibrant to look at as it is to taste. This dish is a harmonious balance of sweetness, freshness, and a hint of creaminess that’s perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a stunning side at your next dinner gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this salad comes from a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play a key role. Strawberry’s natural sweetness, crunchy cucumbers, savory feta, and fragrant mint leaves create layers of flavor and texture that delight the senses. Plus, a quick drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil ties it all together in the most delicious way.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor impact and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced: Choose English cucumber for a tender crunch; peeling and seeding is optional but can improve texture.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a mild sharpness and pops of color without overpowering the salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: The salty creaminess of feta brings a perfect balance to the sweetness of strawberries.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint: Fresh mint leaves lend a cool, aromatic freshness that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy drizzle that amplifies the salad’s vibrant flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps the ingredients meld beautifully.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: To season and enhance every bite.
How to Make Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by washing all fresh produce thoroughly. Hull and slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces, thinly slice your cucumber, and peel and slice the red onion as finely as possible to avoid a overpowering onion flavor. Chop the fresh mint finely to release its aromatic oils.
Step 2: Combine and Toss
Place the strawberries, cucumber, and red onion into a large mixing bowl. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint so they incorporate evenly without breaking up the feta too much.
Step 3: Dress Your Salad
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss lightly with care, making sure everything is coated while preserving the delicate textures.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Marinate
Although this salad can be enjoyed right away, chilling it for about 15 minutes before serving helps the flavors blend and makes every bite even more refreshing and flavorful.
How to Serve Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh mint leaves or a few whole strawberry slices on top before serving to up the visual appeal and add fresh bursts of flavor with each bite. A light dusting of cracked black pepper can also add a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, providing a fresh contrast to smoky, savory meats. It’s also fantastic alongside a crusty baguette or quinoa for a light vegetarian meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in individual glass bowls or mason jars for a charming picnic presentation. For entertaining, layer it in a clear trifle dish showing off the colorful layers of cucumber, strawberry, feta, and mint. Or make mini salad cups using endive leaves for an elegant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumber and strawberries can release water over time, which may dilute the flavors and texture.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh nature of the ingredients, especially the cucumbers and strawberries, which lose their texture and become mushy once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and should not be reheated. Simply give it a gentle toss if stored and serve again cold for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute another cheese for feta in the Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a fantastic substitute if you prefer a creamier texture and slightly tangier flavor, which complements the strawberries just as well.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
The original recipe includes feta cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta or using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I add protein to make this salad more filling?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent protein additions that make this salad more substantial without overpowering its fresh flavors.
What’s the best way to slice the cucumber for this salad?
Thin slices work best to blend nicely with the other ingredients. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent, paper-thin slices for an elegant texture.
How do I make balsamic glaze at home for this recipe?
If you can’t find balsamic glaze at the store, gently simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until it reduces by half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Let it cool before using.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe is one of those effortless dishes that feels special every time you make it. It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own when you want something light but packed with flavor. Give it a try soon — you might just find your go-to summer salad has arrived!
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Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Strawberry Cucumber Salad combines sweet, juicy strawberries with crisp cucumber and tangy feta cheese, all enhanced by fresh mint and a balsamic glaze dressing. Perfect for a light summer meal or a vibrant side dish, this easy no-cook recipe is ready in just 10 minutes and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, place the sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion, ensuring they are evenly mixed for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Add Cheese and Mint: Gently toss in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint to maintain their texture and aroma within the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the salad lightly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- You can substitute goat cheese for feta if preferred for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
- For added protein and a more filling meal, add grilled chicken slices to the salad.
- Use English cucumber for the best texture; if using regular cucumber, peel and seed it to reduce bitterness and improve crunch.
