This bright and crunchy Greek cucumber salad is a perfect side for any meal. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, it’s packed with fresh flavors!
I can’t get enough of the crunchy veggies and zesty dressing; it just screams summer! Serve it chilled and watch it disappear at your next BBQ—you might have to make extra! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large cucumbers for crunch! English cucumbers are also a good option since they’re less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you’re short on cucumbers, zucchini can be an interesting substitute.
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are essential for freshness. If out of season, cherry tomatoes work well too! They add a nice pop of sweetness.
Kalamata Olives: These add a distinctive, briny flavor. If they’re not available, green olives or black olives can work. Just consider the taste differences!
Feta Cheese: Feta is traditional, but if you can’t find it, goat cheese offers a creamier texture. Or for a dairy-free option, try almond or coconut-based feta alternatives.
Red Onion: Red onions are milder. If you prefer less sharpness, use green onions or shallots instead.
How Do I Keep My Salad Fresh and Crunchy?
The key to a refreshing salad is in the preparation! To keep it crisp, follow these tips:
- Always slice cucumbers right before mixing to avoid extra moisture.
- Consider salting the cucumbers first to draw out some water. Just sprinkle, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry.
- Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess. Keeping dressing separate until serving keeps everything fresh.
Lastly, chill the salad in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving—this helps all the flavors mingle deliciously!
Refreshing Greek Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
For The Topping:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For The Dressing:
- 2 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 refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Use a spoon to mix them gently, so everything is well combined.
2. Add Feta and Parsley:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the vegetable mixture. This will add great flavor and a beautiful presentation to your salad.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well into a smooth dressing.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure all the veggies are coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes. This time in the fridge helps the flavors blend beautifully and keeps it extra refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s ready, serve the salad cold as a side dish with grilled meats or your favorite bread. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing Greek delight!
Can I Use Different Types of Olives?
Absolutely! While Kalamata olives add a distinct flavor, you can substitute them with green olives or black olives based on your preference. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. There are several delicious vegan feta options available that can provide a similar tangy flavor!
Can I Prep This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare all the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Just add the dressing and toss everything together right before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crisp!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s crispness.
