I'm always looking for snacks that keep up with my busy days. That's why I created these Cucumber Jars – they're crisp, cool, and packed with flavor, all in a portable jar.
Advertisements1
Think of them as a salad in a jar, but with a fun twist. The cucumbers stay super crunchy, and the dressing is light and zesty. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
No wilting, no soggy greens – just fresh, vibrant goodness. And the best part? You can prep a few jars at once and have healthy snacks ready all week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
2 large English cucumbers (about 1 lb / 450g)
English cucumbers have thin skins and fewer seeds; if using regular cucumbers, peel them. Substitute with Persian cucumbers for extra crunch.
1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
Grape tomatoes also work well. For a sweeter bite, try yellow or orange varieties.
1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
Use goat cheese or cubed mozzarella for a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu.
1/4 cup (30g) thinly sliced red onion
Soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite. Substitute with shallots or green onions.
1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
Cold-pressed olive oil gives the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil.
2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar
White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are great substitutes.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard also work.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh oregano (1 teaspoon) is even better. Or use Italian seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon salt
Sea salt or kosher salt preferred. Adjust to taste.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Freshly ground is best.
2 tablespoons (8g) fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh dill or basil also complement the flavors well.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a mandoline for uniform cucumber slices – they'll look prettier and absorb dressing evenly.
- Layer ingredients in the jar as specified to keep the cucumbers from getting soggy.
- Shake the jar gently before eating to mix the dressing without bruising the cucumbers.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Whisk the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Slice the cucumbers
Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch (6mm) rounds. If using a mandoline, watch your fingers!
3. Prep the veggies
Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the parsley.
4. Layer the jars
In each of 6 pint-sized (500ml) jars, start with the dressing at the bottom. Then add cucumber slices, followed by tomatoes, onion, and feta. Repeat layers if needed.
5. Sprinkle with herbs
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of each jar.
6. Seal and chill
Put the lids on tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Shake and serve
When ready to eat, shake the jar gently to distribute the dressing. Enjoy straight from the jar or pour into a bowl.
Delicious Variations
Add protein
Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or boiled eggs for a heartier snack.
Go Greek
Add Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of dried dill for a Greek twist.
Spicy kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño.
How to Store Cucumber Jars
Refrigerator
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will stay crunchy for about 2 days.
Freezer
Not recommended – cucumbers become mushy when frozen.
Reheating
No reheating needed – enjoy cold or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do cucumber jars last in the fridge?
Cucumber jars last up to 3 days in the fridge, but for the best crunch, eat within 2 days. The dressing might soften the cucumbers over time.
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they have thicker skins and more seeds. Peel them and scoop out the seeds if you prefer a milder taste.
Q: Can I make cucumber jars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They're perfect for meal prep. Make them up to 3 days ahead, but add the feta cheese just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: What can I use instead of feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese, crumbled blue cheese, or even diced avocado for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try cubed tofu.
Q: Are cucumber jars healthy?
Yes, they're low in calories and carbs, and packed with hydrating cucumbers and antioxidants from tomatoes. The olive oil provides healthy fats.
Give these Cucumber Jars a try today! They're a simple way to add more veggies to your day. Prep a few jars tonight and thank yourself tomorrow. Small steps, big impact.
Cucumber Jars
Cucumber Jars are crunchy, refreshing, and perfect for on-the-go snacking. A healthy grab-and-go treat you'll love!
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh parsley, chopped
📋 Instructions
- 1Whisk the dressing — In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- 2Slice the cucumbers — Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch (6mm) rounds. If using a mandoline, watch your fingers!
- 3Prep the veggies — Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the parsley.
- 4Layer the jars — In each of 6 pint-sized (500ml) jars, start with the dressing at the bottom. Then add cucumber slices, followed by tomatoes, onion, and feta. Repeat layers if needed.
- 5Sprinkle with herbs — Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of each jar.
- 6Seal and chill — Put the lids on tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 7Shake and serve — When ready to eat, shake the jar gently to distribute the dressing. Enjoy straight from the jar or pour into a bowl.
Maya writes about sustainable living and zero-waste practices from her urban apartment. She focuses on small, actionable changes that fit busy city life.
