Walder Wellness Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint
Walder Wellness Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint
This refreshing Walder Wellness Strawberry Cucumber Salad is the perfect summer side dish that comes together in just 20 minutes! Combining sweet strawberries, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs with a light honey lemon dressing, this salad is bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s the ideal healthy recipe for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or as a light lunch option that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables and herbs. Wash and slice the strawberries, cucumber, and red onion if using. Chop the fresh mint and basil leaves.
Step 2: Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Combine salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the strawberries, cucumber, red onion, mint, and basil.
Step 4: Add dressing and feta. Drizzle the honey lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Step 5: Serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and toasted nuts if desired. For best flavor, serve within 1-2 hours of preparation.
Expert Tips
- Choose ripe strawberries: Select bright red, fragrant strawberries for the sweetest flavor
- English cucumber: Use seedless English cucumbers for better texture and less water content
- Herb freshness: Always use fresh herbs rather than dried for the brightest flavor
- Make ahead: Prepare ingredients separately and combine just before serving to prevent sogginess
- Customize: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a complete meal
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare ingredients separately and store them in the refrigerator. Combine with dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or queso fresco work well as alternatives. For a vegan option, use dairy-free feta or omit cheese entirely.
How long does this salad keep?
It’s best enjoyed immediately but will keep for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. The cucumbers may release water over time.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or quinoa all make excellent additions to transform this into a complete meal.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweet strawberries and mild dressing make this salad appealing to children. You can reduce or omit the onion if preferred.
Walder Wellness Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs. Wash and slice the strawberries, cucumber, and red onion if using. Chop the fresh mint and basil leaves.
- Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the strawberries, cucumber, red onion, mint, and basil.
- Add dressing and feta. Drizzle the honey lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and toasted nuts if desired. For best flavor, serve within 1-2 hours of preparation.
