There’s nothing quite like a bowl of crisp, cool Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta on a warm day.
This simple recipe brings together garden-fresh cucumbers, creamy feta, and a light dressing that tastes like summer in every bite.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, quick lunch, or a healthy side for grilled chicken, this salad checks every box.
Today, I’m sharing the story behind this family favorite, plus my best tips for making it at home — because fresh food should feel like a breeze, not a chore.
Table of Contents
Table of Content For Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Feta
The Story & Inspiration Behind Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Feta
Summers in the Hudson Valley & Fresh Cucumbers
Growing up in the Hudson Valley, cucumbers were always part of our garden haul. My mom would send us kids out with baskets to gather crisp cukes, fresh mint, and sometimes the plumpest tomatoes for a quick snack or a refreshing salad.
Back then, I didn’t realize that tossing cucumbers with a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt would become the root of recipes like this Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta.
Those sunny afternoons, full of laughter and stained knees, taught me that great food doesn’t need fuss — just honesty and fresh ingredients.
How This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad Became a Family Classic
Over the years, that humble garden salad evolved.
I started adding briny feta for creamy tang, a drizzle of lemon juice for brightness, and fresh herbs for a pop of green.
Now, this Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta is a staple at every cookout and casual dinner in my house.
It pairs beautifully with light mains like my Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and makes a quick side for 5-Ingredient Summer Dinners.
It’s proof that a handful of fresh, good things can still taste like home.
Ingredients & Smart Prep for the Perfect Cucumber Feta Salad
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| English cucumbers | 2 large |
| Feta cheese | 1/2 cup, crumbled |
| Fresh herbs (dill or mint) | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | Juice of 1/2 lemon |
A good Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta always starts with fresh, crisp produce.
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best because they’re naturally sweet and have thin skins — no peeling needed.
Reach for a quality block of feta cheese; it crumbles nicely and melts just enough into the dressing.
Fresh herbs like dill, mint, or parsley add the classic Mediterranean lift. A simple dressing of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt ties it all together without overpowering the crisp cucumbers.
If you’d like, toss in halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
Prep Tips for Crisp, Flavorful Results Every Time
To keep your cucumber salad with feta from getting soggy, slice the cucumbers just before mixing.
You can even sprinkle them with a pinch of salt, let them sit for ten minutes, and then pat dry — this draws out excess water.
Always crumble the feta by hand instead of buying pre-crumbled; it tastes fresher and coats the cucumbers better.
For an extra pop of flavor, use fresh cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of dried oregano.
This salad is quick, but if you have time, let it chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
It’s perfect next to Easy Greek Chickpea Salad or alongside a fresh loaf of bread and your favorite Homemade Vinaigrette.
Serving Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta is as versatile as it is fresh. Serve it chilled in a big bowl at your next backyard BBQ or spoon it over toasted pita bread for a quick, satisfying lunch.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish, and it’s an easy win alongside classic dishes like my Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken.
For a light Mediterranean-inspired spread, serve this salad with warm flatbread, hummus, and a handful of olives.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days — though chances are, there won’t be much left once everyone has a taste!
For a delicious variation, check out my Mediterranean cucumber salad with chickpeas — another easy summer favorite.
FAQs, Expert Tips & Tasty Variations
Common Questions About Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?
Avoid adding watery veggies like zucchini or too many tomatoes, which can make the salad soupy.
Also, steer clear of strong dressings that overpower the fresh crunch.
Keep it simple: cucumber, feta, fresh herbs, and a light dressing.
What is the difference between Greek salad and Mediterranean salad?
A Greek salad typically has cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta, often with a heavier olive oil dressing and sometimes lettuce.
A Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta focuses more on cucumbers and herbs, with a lighter lemon-based dressing and fewer mix-ins.
What is a Mediterranean cucumber salad?
It’s a fresh salad made with crisp cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs like dill or mint, and a bright olive oil and lemon dressing.
It’s perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, inspired by sunny Mediterranean flavors.
What dressing goes on cucumber salad?
This salad shines with a simple dressing: extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, and cracked black pepper.
Some folks like adding a splash of red wine vinegar or a sprinkle of dried oregano too.
Can I make cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep it up to a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Dress it right before serving to keep it crisp.
How long does cucumber salad last?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Should I peel cucumbers for this salad?
Not necessary! Use thin-skinned cucumbers like English or Persian for best results.
What herbs taste best in cucumber salad?
Fresh dill, mint, or parsley are classic choices. Use what you have!
Is Mediterranean cucumber salad healthy?
Absolutely. It’s low in calories, full of hydrating veggies, and packs in fresh herbs and healthy fats.
What to serve with cucumber salad?
Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pita and hummus for a light meal.
Flavor Variations to Keep It Fresh
Want to change it up? Add a handful of pitted olives for briny flavor, toss in chickpeas for protein, or mix in diced avocado for creaminess.
Swap fresh dill for mint or parsley to match your taste.
For a heartier twist, wrap this Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta in pita bread with grilled chicken for a quick lunch on the go.
It’s an easy, tasty way to keep your Healthy Mediterranean Meal Ideas exciting and to sneak in more Quick Weeknight Salads.
Conclusion: A Refreshing Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Feta to Share
A bowl of Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta is the easiest way to taste summer any day of the year.
Crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and bright herbs come together in minutes for a dish that feels like a small celebration.
I hope this simple Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta brings a bit of fresh joy to your table — and maybe even sparks a new family favorite.
Share it, double it, or pack your Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta for lunch — your tastebuds will thank you!
It’s light yet satisfying, pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fresh bread, and adds a splash of sunshine to any meal.
Make it once, and it might just become your go-to summer side dish.
Make it once, and it might just become your go-to summer side dish — just like my original Mediterranean cucumber salad that inspired this twist.
For more recipes follow me in Pinterest.
Print
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Feta
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crisp, fresh Mediterranean cucumber salad with feta, herbs, and lemon dressing. Perfect as a summer side or light lunch.
Ingredients
2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh dill or mint, chopped
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Slice cucumbers thinly and place in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently.
Add crumbled feta and fresh herbs, toss again.
Chill for 10–15 minutes if desired.
Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Use English or Persian cucumbers for best texture.
Prep ahead but add dressing just before serving for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg