Mediterranean Cucumber Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
A refreshing and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad, perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
For the Salad:
- 2 English or Persian cucumbers thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and dry the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or cubes.
Cut cherry tomatoes in halves.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives.
Add chopped parsley, dill, and mint for freshness.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine & Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: For maximum crunch, refrigerate the cucumbers before slicing and dress the salad just before serving.
Variations & Add-Ons
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or flaked salmon for a heartier meal.
Grain-Enhanced: Toss in cooked quinoa, bulgur, or couscous to make it a filling dish.
Creamy Version: Mix the dressing with Greek yogurt or tahini for a creamy twist.
Vegan Alternative: Replace feta with avocado or marinated tofu for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the ingredients in advance but add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.
Q: How do I prevent cucumber salad from getting watery?
A: Salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 15 minutes before assembling the salad. This helps remove excess moisture.
Q: Is Mediterranean cucumber salad healthy?
A: Absolutely! It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Cucumber Salad is an easy, refreshing, and flavorful dish that perfectly complements any meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats, seafood, or enjoyed as a light main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser full of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
🥗 Try it today and bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table!
Keyword Mediterranean Cucumber Salad