Bright, breezy, and bursting with flavor, this Cucumber Strawberry Salad brings together crisp cucumbers, sweet strawberries, herby aromatics, and creamy feta in a refreshing combination that practically sings summer. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary picnic into something you’ll remember — full of juicy fruit, vibrant color, and a tangy balsamic finish that’s nothing short of irresistible. Whether you’re making lunch for one or dazzling dinner guests, this salad captures the best of the season in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cucumber Strawberry Salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient does its part, adding crunch, sweetness, creamy saltiness, or a hit of fresh herbs. When these components mingle, pure magic happens in your bowl!
- Strawberries: Make sure they’re ripe and sliced evenly for maximum sweetness and eye-catching color.
- English cucumber: Thinly slice for the perfect mild crunch; leave the skin on for color and texture.
- Red onion: Just a sliver adds sharpness and a lovely pop of purple — slice very thinly for a gentle bite.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta brings subtle creaminess and a tang that ties the salad together.
- Fresh mint: Chopped mint is your instant ticket to summer freshness in each mouthful.
- Fresh basil: Basil’s fragrant spice balances both the fruit and veggies beautifully.
- Balsamic glaze: Thick and sweet-tart, a drizzle right before serving brings everything to life.
- Olive oil: A light coating helps all the flavors meld and adds a silken touch.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t skip a light sprinkle; it truly enhances every other flavor.
How to Make Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by giving your strawberries, cucumber, red onion, mint, and basil a good rinse. Slice the strawberries and cucumber thin enough for easy eating. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for the onion to get ultra-thin, almost see-through slices. Crumble the feta and roughly chop those herbs — their fragrance alone will make your kitchen smell like summer!
Step 2: Combine The Salad Base
Grab a large bowl and toss in the sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion. This trio forms the fresh, colorful base of the salad. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil. Gently toss together with your hands or a large spoon, making sure everything is coated but the berries aren’t getting squashed.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Herbs
Next, fold in the crumbled feta, chopped mint, and basil. These add layers of creamy, salty, and herbaceous flavor that turn your Cucumber Strawberry Salad into something truly memorable. Toss gently again, so you hit a balance between mixing evenly and keeping the strawberries plump and pretty.
Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Right before serving, drizzle your best balsamic glaze over the salad. This sticky-sweet finish brings acids and depth, with its glossy finish making the colors shine even brighter. Give the salad one last gentle toss and taste for seasoning — adjust salt and pepper as needed.
How to Serve Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Garnishes
For a final touch, sprinkle extra chopped mint or basil right on top. If you love a bit of crunch, a handful of sliced almonds or crushed pistachios is both beautiful and delicious. A few extra crumbles of feta make the plate look extra inviting.
Side Dishes
Cucumber Strawberry Salad pairs delightfully with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or a chilled gazpacho. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside herby quinoa or atop a generous scoop of hummus and pita wedges. Its bright flavors lighten up heavier mains beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
This salad loves a gorgeous serving platter! Try piling it onto a big white dish for a colorful centerpiece, or spooning portions into individual glass cups for picnic-friendly elegance. Alternatively, plate it on a bed of arugula for more greens and a peppery bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. While it’s best the day it’s made, it will keep for up to 24 hours. The flavors continue to meld but the strawberries can soften, so give it a quick toss before enjoying again.
Freezing
This salad doesn’t freeze well — the fresh fruit and veggies lose their texture and the feta will turn grainy once thawed. If you’re meal prepping, keep the ingredients separate and combine fresh just before serving.
Reheating
No reheating is necessary for this no-cook wonder! Simply enjoy your Cucumber Strawberry Salad chilled straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes to bring out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute another cheese for feta?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a fantastic alternative, lending extra creaminess and tang. Shaved parmesan works for a different twist, though feta or goat cheese best complement the salad’s flavors.
How do I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta or choose a plant-based feta alternative. The salad remains vibrant and flavorful with plenty of fresh produce and herbs.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can reduce regular balsamic vinegar over gentle heat until it thickens and sweetens, or just use a light splash of balsamic vinegar for a tarter finish.
Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Definitely! Blueberries, sliced peaches, or even watermelon pair beautifully. Thinly sliced radish or avocado can add more color and creaminess.
How far ahead can I make this salad?
Cucumber Strawberry Salad is at its freshest within a few hours of assembly. If you’d like to prep ahead, slice the fruits and veggies and store separately, then combine and dress right before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something vibrant, healthy, and downright joyful, you’ll fall in love with Cucumber Strawberry Salad. Even if you’ve never tried strawberries and cucumbers in the same bite, one forkful and you’ll be hooked. Don’t wait for a special occasion — make this salad soon and share it with someone you love!
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Cucumber Strawberry Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing and colorful Cucumber Strawberry Salad featuring a delightful mix of fresh strawberries, English cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, mint, basil, and a balsamic glaze. This easy salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Strawberry Salad:
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Cucumber Salad:
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the strawberries, cucumber, and red onion.
- Toss with Seasoning: Gently toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add Flavors: Incorporate the feta, mint, and basil.
- Drizzle and Toss: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving and gently toss.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For added crunch, consider including chopped pistachios or sliced almonds.
- Best served fresh on the day it’s prepared.
- Goat cheese can be substituted for feta if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
