If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with freshness, color, and incredible flavor, then the Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Feta, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful medley combines juicy strawberries, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs with creamy feta and crunchy walnuts, all tied together perfectly by a luscious balsamic glaze. It’s the kind of salad that feels light and refreshing but still totally satisfying — perfect for a quick lunch, a vibrant side, or an impressive dish to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is all about simplicity and quality ingredients coming together for a standout dish. Each component plays an essential role — the strawberries bring sweetness, cucumbers add crunch, and fresh herbs deliver bright, aromatic notes while the feta and walnuts provide texture and richness.
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced: Use ripe, juicy strawberries to maximize sweetness and flavor contrast.
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced: Choose a firm cucumber for that refreshing crunch.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped: Mint brings a cool, uplifting scent and taste.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped: Basil introduces a slight peppery depth that complements strawberries beautifully.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta adds a savory counterpoint.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped: Toasting enhances the nuts’ nutty flavor and crunch.
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze: This sweet, syrupy glaze merges all the salad’s components with a rich tang.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil smooths out the flavors and adds a silky finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to balance and elevate every ingredient.
How to Make Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Feta, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly, then hull and slice them into uniform pieces. This ensures every bite has a burst of sweet, juicy flavor without overpowering the salad.
Step 2: Thinly Slice the Cucumber
Delicately slice the cucumber as thin as possible for that perfect crisp texture that contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the strawberries.
Step 3: Slice the Red Onion
Slice the red onion thinly to avoid an overpowering zing but still provide a gentle hint that enhances the other ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, add the strawberries, cucumber, and red onion. This mix of colors and textures forms the vibrant base of the salad.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle the chopped mint and basil over the salad for bright, refreshing bursts of flavor that lift the entire dish to a new level.
Step 6: Toss and Mix Gently
Give the salad a delicate toss to distribute the herbs evenly without bruising the fruit or cucumber.
Step 7: Add Feta and Walnuts
Scatter the crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts on top for that irresistible savory-pop and crunchy contrast.
Step 8: Drizzle with Dressing
Pour the balsamic glaze and olive oil over the salad, allowing the glaze to infuse sweetness and the oil to smooth out the texture.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper carefully, tasting as you go to perfectly balance the salad’s various vibrant flavors.
Step 10: Final Toss
Gently toss everything again so the dressing coats every piece, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 11: Let the Salad Rest
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully — this resting time makes all the difference for a harmonious taste experience.
How to Serve Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Feta, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, add a few fresh basil leaves and a drizzle more of balsamic glaze just before serving. A sprinkle of extra toasted walnuts can also add a nice finishing crunch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs marvelously with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also wonderful alongside a crisp baguette or a light quinoa dish, complementing heartier mains with its fresh juice and zest.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual glass jars or pretty bowls to showcase its vibrant colors. Layered presentations with the berries on top or a decorative swirl of balsamic glaze on the plate can make this simple salad feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Feta, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to two days, though the texture of cucumbers is best when eaten sooner.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t recommended for freezing, as the cucumbers and strawberries lose their texture and become watery when thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, no-cook salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Enjoy it chilled to fully appreciate the crisp and juicy ingredients.
FAQs
Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or ricotta salata are great alternatives if you want a different flavor profile while still keeping that creamy, tangy element.
How do I make my own balsamic glaze?
Making balsamic glaze at home is easy: just simmer balsamic vinegar over medium heat until it reduces by half and thickens. Add a little honey if you want extra sweetness.
What if I don’t have fresh basil or mint?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use a small amount of dried basil or mint, though fresh is always best for that bright, fresh taste.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
This salad is best prepared shortly before serving. You can slice the strawberries and cucumber a few hours ahead, but combine and dress the salad just before guests arrive to keep it fresh.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Feta, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to pull together, visually stunning, and packed with flavors that feel both simple and sophisticated. Give it a try soon—you might just discover your new go-to salad for enjoying the best of the season!
