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Smashed Cucumber Salad with Feta-Dill Dressing and Pistachios Recipe


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4.1 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A refreshing and easy-to-make Smashed Cucumber Salad featuring crisp English cucumbers tossed in a creamy feta-dill dressing and topped with crunchy roasted pistachios. Perfect as a light appetizer or a side dish for warm-weather meals, this salad offers a delightful combination of textures and bright flavors in just 15 minutes.


Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 lb. English cucumbers
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped roasted pistachios
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill

Feta-Dill Dressing

  • 4 oz. feta cheese
  • 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper


Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the English cucumbers crosswise into 4-inch long pieces, then cut each piece in half lengthwise. Place each piece skin side down on a clean surface and lay a chef's knife flat on top. Using your fist or palm, lightly smash down so the skin cracks and the flesh breaks down. Break or slice the smashed cucumber diagonally into bite-size pieces and transfer them to a large bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and set aside.
  2. Make the feta dressing: In a separate bowl, crumble the feta cheese thoroughly using a fork. Add the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and cracked black pepper, mixing well until smooth and creamy.
  3. Toss the salad: Pour the feta dressing over the smashed cucumbers. Add the finely chopped roasted pistachios and fresh dill. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing and evenly mixed with the pistachios and dill.
  4. Garnish and serve: Optionally, garnish the salad with extra fresh dill, an additional crack of black pepper, and a light drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately to enjoy the briny, tangy, and crunchy textures at their freshest.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before chopping.
  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for best flavor.
  • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for optimal taste.
  • For a vegan version, substitute feta with a plant-based alternative.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean