This Easy Mediterranean Smashed Cucumber Salad combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creamy richness of feta cheese, creating a dish that is not only a breeze to prepare but also loaded with flavor. With minimal prep time, this salad delivers delicious Mediterranean flavors in under 20 minutes.
Cut the mini cucumbers in half lengthwise and then crosswise into 2-inch pieces. Place them on a cutting board and gently smash them with the flat side of a knife or a meat mallet until they split open. Let them sit with salt for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then drain.
In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped dill. Mash together until creamy and well mixed.
In a large bowl, add the smashed cucumbers and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat.
Spoon the feta mixture over the smashed cucumbers and gently mix to combine.
Top with chopped pistachios and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage Store any leftover Mediterranean Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Freeze This dish is not freezer-friendly.Reheat No reheating required.Substitutions
Mini Cucumbers: Swap for English cucumbers for a different texture.
Feta Cheese: Use crumbled goat cheese for a creamier taste.
Fresh Dill: Replace with parsley or mint for a unique flavor profile.
Pistachios: Swap with walnuts or toasted pine nuts.
Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.Nutrition information is only an estimate