Pan-Fried Cucumber with Feta
A quick side dish that changes everything.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
We all know cucumber raw, in salads, a bit shy. But have you ever dared to toss it in a pan? Lightly caramelized with a touch of sugar, it becomes tender and surprising. Add crumbled feta and a hint of dill, and you've got an original side dish that comes together in the blink of an eye.
Ingredients
-
cucumber
-
vegan cheese
-
olive oil
-
salt and pepper
-
sugar
-
dill
Recipe steps
Prepare the cucumbers
Peel the cucumbers, cut them in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Then slice them into half-moons about 5 mm thick.
Sauté the cucumbers
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil, then immediately add the cucumber slices. Sprinkle with sugar and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the feta and dill
Fold in the crumbled feta and chopped dill. Mix gently so you don’t crush the cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve right away
Plate immediately in a serving dish or directly onto plates. This dish is best enjoyed hot, when the feta is just starting to melt.
Tips and variations
- No feta? Fresh crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta salata will work just as well.
- Want more freshness? Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
- For a more indulgent version, sprinkle with a few toasted pine nuts.
Anti-waste tips
The cucumber seeds you scooped out can be blended with yogurt, garlic, and a pinch of salt to whip up a quick tzatziki-style sauce.
Cucumber peels are edible! Save them to add to infused water or a green smoothie.
