This Fresh and Crisp Greek Cucumber Salad is like a sunny day on a plate! With crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, it’s super refreshing.
Don’t forget the olive oil drizzle—it really brings everything together! I love making this salad as a quick side dish for summer BBQs. Perfect for munching on! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are key for crunch! I recommend using English cucumbers for their mild flavor and fewer seeds. If those aren’t available, regular cucumbers work too—just peel them if the skin is bitter.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness. I love using vine-ripened tomatoes for this salad, but any juicy variety will do. You can swap in cherry tomatoes for a fun twist—just halve them!
Kalamata Olives: These olives provide a bold taste. If they’re not your favorite, feel free to use green olives or even capers for a different flavor profile.
Feta Cheese: The creamy feta is a must! If you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds zing! If you don’t have it on hand, lemon juice is a great substitute. Both will brighten up the salad beautifully.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Cucumber Salad?
To really enhance the flavor of your salad, let it sit after tossing everything together. This resting time allows the veggies to soak up the dressing and blend their tastes. Here’s how:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl, but hold off on the dressing until just before serving.
- After tossing with the dressing, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature.
- This time helps the cucumbers and tomatoes release their juices, creating a light dressing of their own!
Enjoy your refreshing salad with your favorite grilled dishes or as a light snack!
Fresh and Crisp Greek Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Salad:
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and assembly. This includes chopping veggies and whisking up the dressing. Plus, letting it sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend is a bonus!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss together the cucumber slices, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. This creates a vibrant base for your salad.
2. Add Feta and Parsley:
Gently sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the vegetable mix. These ingredients add a wonderful creamy texture and fresh herbs.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together so all the veggies and feta are well-coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Let it Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your fresh Greek cucumber salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone light snack!
Enjoy your crisp and refreshing creation! 🥗
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are great for their mild flavor and fewer seeds, but you can also use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if the skin is tough or bitter.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta. You can also add ingredients like avocado for creaminess or more veggies for added texture and flavor.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. You may need to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving to refresh the flavors!
