Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean. Combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty olive oil dressing, this salad is both light and flavorful. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a quick, healthy lunch option. Whether you’re enjoying a backyard barbecue or looking for a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, this Greek salad is sure to please your taste buds.
Greek Cucumber and Feta Salad
- Total Time: 19 minute
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant salad combining cucumbers, tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, tossed in a simple olive oil dressing. This Greek-inspired dish is perfect as a side or a light, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
- For added flavor, include Kalamata olives or a pinch of sumac.
- If making ahead, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
- Adjust the amount of feta to taste for a creamier or lighter salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Keywords: Mediterranean Cucumber Salad, Greek Salad with Feta, Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad, Greek Vegetable Salad
The Perfect Balance of Freshness and Flavor
The combination of ingredients in this salad creates a balance of flavors and textures that make it stand out. The cucumbers bring a cool, crisp bite, while the tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness. Feta cheese introduces a salty, tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables. A simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and a touch of garlic ties everything together, creating a harmonious and flavorful dish.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a side dish to accompany grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light meal. It’s also a great addition to a Mediterranean-style mezze platter, served alongside hummus, pita bread, and olives. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or preparing a formal dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Healthy and Nutrient-Dense
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cucumbers and tomatoes are both hydrating and full of vitamins, while feta cheese adds calcium and protein. Olive oil, a key component of the dressing, provides heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only satisfying but also beneficial for your overall health.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the best things about Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients that are often already in your kitchen, you can prepare a flavorful dish in minutes. Fresh vegetables, good-quality feta cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil are all you need to bring the authentic flavors of Greece to your table.
A Salad for All Seasons
While this salad is especially refreshing in the summer months, it can be enjoyed year-round. In the warmer months, the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes provide a cooling effect, making it the perfect dish for picnics and barbecues. In the colder months, the bright flavors of the salad can bring a taste of sunshine to your table, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier, winter dishes.
Customizable to Your Taste
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is highly customizable. You can add other ingredients like Kalamata olives, red onions, or fresh herbs such as mint or parsley to enhance the flavors. If you prefer a more substantial salad, try adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it a complete meal. You can also adjust the amount of feta cheese or dressing to suit your taste preferences.
A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Event
This salad is perfect for entertaining because it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the crumbled feta cheese make for a visually appealing presentation, while the fresh, tangy flavors satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Make It Ahead for Easy Entertaining
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad can be made ahead of time, which makes it ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. You can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing a few hours before serving. Simply combine everything just before your guests arrive to keep the salad fresh and crisp. This allows you to enjoy your time with friends and family without worrying about last-minute prep.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a healthy and easy-to-prepare dish for meal prep, this salad is a great option. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. It holds up well, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits. Pack it for a quick lunch or serve it as a side dish for dinner throughout the week.
Add a Protein for a Complete Meal
To make this salad more filling, you can easily add a source of protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions that turn this simple salad into a complete meal. Chickpeas are another excellent option for a plant-based protein boost. With these additions, you’ll have a well-rounded dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
A Salad That’s Naturally Gluten-Free
For those with dietary restrictions, Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is naturally gluten-free. This makes it a great option for anyone who needs to avoid gluten while still enjoying a flavorful and nutritious dish. It’s also low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Why Feta Cheese Is Essential
Feta cheese is one of the key ingredients in this salad, and its sharp, tangy flavor is what gives the dish its distinctive Greek taste. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, feta has a unique crumbly texture that adds richness to the salad without overpowering the fresh vegetables. Using high-quality feta cheese can elevate the entire dish, so it’s worth seeking out authentic Greek feta if possible.
Perfect for Summer Picnics and Barbecues
This salad is an ideal choice for summer picnics and barbecues. The light and refreshing flavors complement grilled meats, while the cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes help balance out richer, heavier dishes. It’s also easy to transport and holds up well at room temperature, making it perfect for outdoor events.
How to Store and Serve
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is best served fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the vegetables from becoming soggy. For the best flavor, let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld.
Pairing This Salad with Other Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean dishes. Serve it alongside grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or fish for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with pita bread and hummus for a simple and satisfying lunch. The fresh flavors of the salad complement a wide range of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
An Easy Way to Boost Your Vegetable Intake
If you’re looking to increase your vegetable intake, Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is a delicious way to do it. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provides a range of vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil offers heart-healthy fats. Adding this salad to your regular meal rotation is an easy and flavorful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
A Kid-Friendly Salad
Surprisingly, this salad is also popular with kids. The bright colors and simple flavors make it approachable, and the mild, tangy feta cheese is often a hit with younger palates. You can reduce the amount of onion or substitute it with a milder variety if your kids aren’t fans of strong flavors, making this salad a family-friendly option.
Elevate Your Salad with Herbs and Spices
To add even more flavor to this salad, try adding fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, or mint. You can also sprinkle in some za’atar or sumac for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor. These additions will enhance the fresh, vibrant taste of the salad, making it even more delicious.
A Great Addition to Mediterranean-Style Meals
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad fits perfectly into a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fresh vegetables, olive oil, and lean proteins. This diet is known for its health benefits, including heart health and longevity. Adding this salad to your meal plan is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of Mediterranean cuisine.
Conclusion: A Refreshing, Healthy, and Delicious Salad
Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a side dish, enjoying it on its own, or adding protein to make it a complete meal. With its crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and zesty olive oil dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs for Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance. Store them separately and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar flavor.
3. How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like Kalamata olives, red onions, or bell peppers to customize the salad to your taste.
5. Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, Greek Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.