This Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad is a vibrant mix of cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. It’s a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
I love how quickly it comes together! Just chop your veggies, toss them with some olive oil and herbs, and you’re ready to enjoy. Great with grilled chicken or on its own! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are essential for crunch. I prefer English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will also work. You can leave the skin on for extra color and nutrients!
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness. I suggest vine-ripened or heirloom for the best flavor. If tomatoes aren’t in season, try using cherry tomatoes—just cut them in half for easy mixing.
Red Onion: Red onion offers a nice bite. If it’s too strong for your taste, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor. Shallots are also a great alternative if you’re looking for something milder.
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a briny flavor that enhances the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, try green olives or omit them entirely if olives aren’t your thing.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad its creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu mixed with a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of salt for a similar taste.
How Do You Make the Salad Extra Flavorful?
To boost the flavors in your Greek Cucumber Salad, there are a couple of key steps to follow. First, don’t skip letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing! This resting period allows the vegetables to release their juices and marinate in the dressing.
- Mix the veggies, drizzle oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss to coat everything. The goal is to keep that cucumber crunch!
- Let it sit before serving; this makes the salad even better.
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—sometimes a little more salt or vinegar can make all the difference!
Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can toss it together quickly and let it rest for about 10 minutes to let the flavors develop. It’s perfect for a side dish at a barbecue or a light lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Veggies:
Start by washing and peeling the cucumbers. Once they’re peeled, dice them into bite-sized pieces. Then, chop the tomatoes into similar sizes and thinly slice the red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, give the slices a quick rinse under cold water.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, sliced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. This colorful mix is already looking appetizing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing adds so much flavor to the salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together so it all gets coated evenly. Don’t be too rough—you want to keep the veggies intact!
5. Add the Feta and Garnish:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad. If you’d like, add some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors really soak in, making the salad taste even better!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Greek Cucumber Salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a fantastic side dish or even a light, refreshing main meal. Enjoy that burst of Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ About Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While cucumbers and tomatoes are key, you can add bell peppers, radishes, or even diced zucchini for extra crunch and color. Just be sure to keep the overall balance of flavors in mind!
What Type of Feta Cheese Should I Use?
Use a traditional Greek feta cheese for the best flavor! It comes in both block and crumbled forms. If you have a preference or can’t find Greek feta, any good-quality feta will work, but avoid the pre-crumbled versions if possible, as they can be drier.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release water, so if you want to maintain the salad’s crunch, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the vegetables and dressing a day in advance, but it’s best to combine them and add the feta just a few hours before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
