This light and refreshing Greek cucumber salad is perfect for summer! With crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, zesty red onion, and a sprinkle of feta, it’s a joy for your taste buds.
I love to serve this salad at picnics! It’s so easy to whip up, and the colors make it look like a party on a plate. Plus, who can resist that tangy dressing? 🍅🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are key to this salad. If you don’t have large cucumbers, try English cucumbers. They are seedless and often have a thinner skin, making them a great alternative.
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes bring sweetness. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, consider using cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor or even canned diced tomatoes, but drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a sweet and mild flavor. If it’s too strong for your liking, you can substitute with green onions or shallots for a subtler taste.
Kalamata Olives: These olives give a perfect briny taste. If you can’t find them, green olives or even black olives will work fine, and they offer a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta is classic in Greek salads, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan feta. It won’t have the same taste, but it will provide a creamy texture.
How Do I Make This Salad Extra Flavorful?
To boost the flavors in your Greek cucumber salad, start with properly preparing your ingredients. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes just before mixing; this keeps them crisp. Combine them with onions and olives in a large bowl.
- For the dressing, whisk olive oil and red wine vinegar; this is your base. Adding fresh lemon juice can brighten it more.
- Mix in dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste it before pouring it on; adjust seasoning to your preference.
- After tossing the salad, letting it sit for 10 minutes is key. This allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing and the flavors blend beautifully.
Fresh Greek Cucumber Salad for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables & Cheese:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 3 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 Fresh Greek Cucumber Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Simply chop your veggies and whisk the dressing, and in no time, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing your cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl, and add the pitted Kalamata olives. This is the colorful base of your salad!
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk it together until everything is nicely blended. This dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over your bowl of vegetables and toss gently. Make sure all the veggies are coated in that delicious dressing!
4. Add Feta and Parsley:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley on top of the salad. These ingredients add a lovely creaminess and a burst of flavor.
5. Let It Sit:
Give the salad a final gentle toss to mix everything together. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This waiting time will make your salad even tastier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Fresh Greek Cucumber Salad is ready to serve! It’s perfect served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for a light summer meal or as a refreshing side at your next barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Olives?
Absolutely! While Kalamata olives are traditional, you can use any pitted olives you like. Green olives or black olives can add a different flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How Do I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispiness of the vegetables. Toss everything together right before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release moisture, so the salad might become a bit soggy. Give it a gentle toss before enjoying it again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Sure! Feel free to customize your salad with additional ingredients like bell peppers, radishes, avocado, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Just remember to adjust the dressing to taste!
