Description
This refreshing Smashed Cucumber Salad combines crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. Perfect as a light side or snack, this quick and easy salad delivers vibrant flavors and a delightful mix of textures in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber
- 1 medium ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
Dressing Ingredients
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic – peeled and minced
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Chop each cucumber in half lengthwise. Place each half flat side down on a cutting board, use the flat side of your knife and your hand to gently smash the cucumber halves. Then chop the smashed cucumbers into roughly 1-inch pieces. Transfer them to a medium-sized bowl.
- Add Avocado and Other Salad Ingredients: Peel and chop the avocado, then add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped pistachios, dill, and chives to the same bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate glass jar or bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the ingredients emulsify into a smooth dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the salad immediately, optionally garnished with extra freshly chopped herbs to brighten the flavors even more. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use Persian cucumbers for a milder flavor and smaller seeds; English cucumbers also work well in larger quantities.
- Smashing cucumbers helps release more flavor and texture compared to slicing.
- Adjust honey and lemon juice to taste if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy dressing.
- For a nut-free version, omit pistachios or substitute with toasted sunflower seeds.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
