This Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad is a crisp and refreshing dish perfect for warm days. It features crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just chop, mix, and you’re ready to serve. It’s a hit at picnics—who doesn’t love an easy salad that looks fancy? 🥗
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s my go-to when I want something light and tasty without the fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too—just peel them if the skin is too thick.
Tomatoes: Ripe vine tomatoes add great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, cherry tomatoes can be a sweet alternative. Just halve them instead of dicing.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice crunch and color, but if it’s too sharp for your taste, you could swap it for green onions or even sweet Vidalia onions for a milder flavor.
Kalamata Olives: These olives have a rich flavor, but black olives or green olives can be used if you prefer something different.
Feta Cheese: For a creamier texture, try using goat cheese instead. Crumbled cotage cheese can also be a lighter option.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Is Extra Flavorful?
To boost the flavor of your salad, don’t skip the resting step! Letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing allows the veggies to soak up the dressing. This makes a big difference! Here’s how:
- Mix veggies first, then add the feta and olives last to keep them intact.
- Whisk your dressing well to ensure every drop is flavored.
- Taste after resting! You may want to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper.
Using fresh herbs like parsley is key; chopping them just before adding releases their oils and enhances the aroma. Enjoy your salad prep!
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
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll have a fresh and vibrant dish ready to serve in no time! Let it sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld before digging in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
In a large bowl, toss together the diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. This forms the base of your fresh salad!
2. Add Feta and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the vegetable mixture. This will add a nice creaminess and herbal flavor to your salad.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well combined to ensure every bite has great flavor.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to mix. You want to coat the vegetables without breaking them apart.
5. Let It Rest:
Set the salad aside for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a side dish or light lunch. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite of your fresh Greek cucumber salad!
FAQ for Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for creaminess. Just keep the overall proportion similar for the best texture and flavor.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so give it a good stir before serving again!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can try goat cheese or even crumbled Ricotta for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta or omit cheese altogether without compromising the salad’s freshness!
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
You can make this salad a few hours ahead of time. Just assemble all the ingredients, but wait until right before serving to add the dressing. This keeps the cucumbers crisp and prevents them from getting soggy.
