This Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad is a light and crunchy delight! It combines cool cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing.
I love serving this salad on hot days. It’s quick to make and perfect alongside grilled meats. Plus, it’s so refreshing that even my picky eaters love it! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are key for crispness. I recommend using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds. If they’re not available, pickling cucumbers work too. Just remember to peel the skin if it’s too thick.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add juiciness. I usually go for vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes for their flavor. In winter months, you can substitute with cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion complements the salad. If you find red onion too strong, try using green onions instead for a milder taste.
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a briny flavor. If you’re not a fan, try black olives or even capers as a fun twist!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess. If you want a non-dairy option, crumbled tofu has a similar texture. For another flavor, try goat cheese!
How Do I Prepare the Best Dressing for this Salad?
The dressing is essential for a delicious Greek cucumber salad. It’s simple and enhances all the fresh veggies. Start by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano in a small bowl.
- Mix until the dressing is well blended.
- Adjust salt and pepper based on your taste preference—don’t skip this step, as it really livens up the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the veggies just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.
This dressing is versatile too! Feel free to add a dash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
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 crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish for dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling and dicing the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Next, wash the tomatoes and chop them into similar-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp flavor, and halving the Kalamata olives will allow their briny taste to blend throughout the salad.
2. Mix It Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables: cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and the dressing has emulsified.
4. Combine Dressing and Salad:
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece is coated in the flavorful dressing.
5. Add Feta and Parsley:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped fresh parsley on top of the salad. Give everything one last gentle toss to combine without breaking up the feta too much.
6. Chill or Serve:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing Greek cucumber salad!
FAQ for Fresh and Easy Greek Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses large cucumbers, you can also use English cucumbers for a sweeter flavor or pickling cucumbers if you prefer. Just remember to peel them if the skin is too thick!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Greek cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables may lose some crunchiness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make 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 cucumbers from becoming soggy. Combine everything just before serving for maximum freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or avocado for creaminess. Goat cheese is also a great alternative if you enjoy a tangy flavor.
