This refreshing cucumber strawberry salad is a perfect blend of crisp cucumbers and sweet strawberries, tossed together with a light dressing. It’s colorful and oh-so-tasty!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just chop, mix, and enjoy. It’s great for hot days or as a side dish at summer picnics. Plus, it’s a healthy treat—who could resist that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English or Persian cucumbers as they are crispier and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel them if the skin is too thick.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness. If they’re out of season, consider using another berry like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor twist!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a flavorful creaminess. You can substitute goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese if you like. Soft cheese adds nice texture, so choose what you enjoy best!
Fresh Mint: Mint brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, try basil for a unique flavor. Dried mint can work too, but only use a small amount as it’s more potent.
Honey or Agave Syrup: These sweeteners balance the tang of vinegar. You could also use maple syrup or a sugar substitute if those fit your needs better.
How Do I Create a Well-Balanced Dressing?
Making a great dressing is essential for this salad. It needs to enhance the ingredients without overpowering them. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Whisk together the olive oil, honey or agave syrup, and vinegar until they blend smoothly. The oil should be the base, so use about three parts oil to one part vinegar.
- Always taste your dressing. If it’s too sharp, add a touch more honey. If it’s too sweet, a bit more vinegar will brighten it up!
- Adding salt and pepper right at the end helps bring all the flavors together. Don’t skip this step!
Remember to keep the dressing light, so it complements rather than weighs down your fresh veggies!
Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to make, and you can enjoy it right away or let it chill for a bit to enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing your cucumbers and strawberries. Slice cucumbers into half-moons, and hull and halve the strawberries. Make sure to remove any green tops from the strawberries for a better texture and flavor.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved strawberries, and cubed feta cheese. This combination looks so colorful and fresh!
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Chop your fresh mint leaves and add them to the bowl with your other ingredients. It adds a delightful freshness. Set aside a few whole mint leaves for garnish later.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or agave syrup), and vinegar until everything is well combined and smooth. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking, if needed.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry mixture. Be sure to coat everything evenly!
6. Toss and Season:
Gently toss the salad to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed and coated with the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste a bit to see if you need more seasoning!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once mixed, garnish your salad with the reserved mint leaves. You can serve it immediately or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
This salad is not only light and refreshing but also packed with delightful flavors that are perfect for a warm day or as an inviting side dish at gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta adds a nice salty flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a creamier texture or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Feel free to experiment with what you enjoy!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and the strawberries fresh. If you need to prepare it early, mix everything except the dressing and add it just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within a day for optimal freshness, but it can be kept for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunch, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Adding other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced avocado can enhance the flavor. You could also include bell peppers or red onions for an extra crunch and flavor contrast!
