Simple Beet & Feta Salad with Cucumbers

Simple Beet & Feta Salad with Cucumbers was born on one of those days when I needed something light and refreshing yet still satisfying. I had a couple of roasted beets left over from the night before and a fresh block of feta in the fridge so I decided to toss them together with some crisp cucumber slices and a drizzle of olive oil.

What surprised me most was how quickly it came together and how well the flavors balanced each other. The earthiness of the beets blended perfectly with the saltiness of the feta and the crunch from the cucumber added just the right texture. Since then it’s become one of my favorite go-to salads for lunch or a quick side dish.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Beets – Their earthy sweetness forms the hearty base of this salad
• Cucumbers – Add a refreshing crunch and lightness
• Feta cheese – Brings creamy tang and saltiness to balance the beets
• Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of green and freshness
• Olive oil – Coats everything with a smooth rich finish
• Lemon juice – Brightens and lifts the flavor of the whole salad
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance

Tools You’ll Need

• Knife and cutting board – To slice the cucumbers and beets with precision
• Mixing bowl – To toss everything together gently
• Small jar or whisk – For mixing the lemon-olive oil dressing
• Measuring spoons – To get the right balance of oil and acid
• Serving plate or bowl – For a beautiful presentation

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by roasting or boiling the beets until fork-tender and once they’ve cooled I peel and slice them into thin rounds.

Step 2:

Next I slice the cucumber into thin rounds and chop a handful of fresh parsley for garnish.

Step 3:

In a small bowl I whisk together olive oil lemon juice salt and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette.

Step 4:

I gently combine the sliced beets and cucumbers in a large bowl and drizzle the dressing over the top.

Step 5:

I crumble or cube the feta cheese and scatter it evenly across the salad then I toss everything just once or twice to mix without breaking the beets apart.

Step 6:

I finish by sprinkling chopped parsley and a little extra cracked pepper before serving.

Tips

To save time I often use pre-cooked or vacuum-sealed beets. For a tangier version I sometimes add a splash of red wine vinegar or thinly sliced red onions. And if you prefer dairy-free you can skip the feta or use a plant-based version.

Ways to Serve

As a light lunch with warm pita bread

Alongside grilled chicken or fish

Over a bed of arugula for an even more filling salad

Chilled as a make-ahead picnic side

With a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added crunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Simple Beet & Feta Salad with Cucumbers ahead of time?

Yes I recommend assembling it just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and the feta fresh.

What kind of beets work best in this salad?

I prefer red beets for their bold color and flavor but golden beets or striped Chioggia beets also look beautiful.

Is the Simple Beet & Feta Salad with Cucumbers good for meal prep?

Absolutely just store the components separately and combine them right before eating.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you enjoy this fresh and colorful Simple Beet & Feta Salad with Cucumbers as much as I do! It’s perfect for quick meals and elegant enough for entertaining. Let me know how yours turns out!

Happy Cooking!

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