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Crispy Baked Feta Cucumber Tomato Salad

crispy baked feta cucumber tomato salad - featured image

A fresh and flavorful salad featuring crispy baked feta cheese combined with juicy cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty herb dressing. Perfect for warm weather and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 block (about 7 oz / 200g) feta cheese, firm type
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp chopped dill
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking dish or sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Place the block of feta in the center of your baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are golden and crispy while the center stays creamy.
  3. While the feta bakes, slice the cucumber into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Combine all in a large bowl along with the fresh herbs.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Remove the feta from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Gently transfer it to the salad bowl with the veggies.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly, being careful not to break up the feta too much.
  7. Serve immediately for best texture, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Notes

Use firm feta cheese for best crispiness. Watch the feta closely to avoid overbaking. Let ingredients come to room temperature before serving. For dairy-free, substitute feta with firm tofu or vegan cheese. Salad holds well for up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat feta gently to revive crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked feta salad, cucumber tomato salad, crispy feta, fresh salad, easy summer recipe, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad