Greek Cucumber Salad

Greek cucumber salad always brings me back to the first time I visited a little family-run taverna during a summer trip where I tasted something so simple yet unbelievably full of flavor. I was struck by the way crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes could shine so brightly just by being paired with briny olives and a bit of creamy feta and ever since then I’ve been recreating that taste of sunshine at home.

What I love most about this salad is how effortlessly it comes together and still feels like something special and that makes it a regular on my table especially when I need a quick dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether I’m hosting or just feeding myself and this Greek cucumber salad delivers the perfect balance of fresh and savory every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Cucumber – The cool and crisp base that adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
• Cherry tomatoes – They add juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
• Red onion – Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness and bite.
• Kalamata olives – These give the salad that signature salty Greek touch.
• Green olives – For a slightly different briny flavor that complements the rest.
• Feta cheese – Creamy and tangy and it balances beautifully with the fresh vegetables.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a light herbal note and a pop of green.
• Olive oil – Rich and smooth and it ties everything together as a classic dressing base.
• Dried oregano – Brings out traditional Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
• Black pepper – A light sprinkle gives depth and contrast to the dish.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Cutting board – The perfect surface to prep all the fresh ingredients cleanly.
• Sharp knife – Essential for slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions neatly.
• Mixing bowl – To combine and toss all the ingredients evenly.
• Salad tongs – Great for gently mixing and serving without breaking the veggies.
• Small spoon or fork – Ideal for crumbling and placing feta on top delicately.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the veggies

I begin by washing the cucumber and tomatoes thoroughly and then I slice the cucumber into rounds and cut the cherry tomatoes in half for easy bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Slice the onion

Next I thinly slice the red onion and I make sure the slices are nice and fine because that helps them blend into the salad without overpowering it.

Step 3: Add the olives

I like to mix in a generous handful of both kalamata and green olives because they each bring their own briny twist to the dish.

Step 4: Toss it all together

In a large mixing bowl I gently toss the cucumber and tomatoes and onion and olives together and I drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of dried oregano and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Finish with feta and herbs

Right before serving I crumble the feta cheese over the top and I scatter fresh parsley to brighten up the dish and it’s ready to go!

Tips

If you’re not a fan of raw red onion I recommend soaking the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them and it helps mellow out their sharpness. I also sometimes swap the feta block for crumbled goat cheese if I’m in the mood for something a little softer and tangier.

Ways to Serve

Pair it with grilled lamb or chicken for a flavorful Mediterranean meal.

Serve it alongside warm pita and hummus for a light lunch.

Add chickpeas or quinoa to make it more filling.

Perfect as a refreshing side at BBQs or picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Greek cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes and I often prep everything except the feta and herbs and then toss them in just before serving for the freshest result.

What type of cucumber works best for this salad?

I like to use English cucumbers because they’re seedless and extra crisp but regular cucumbers work too if you peel and deseed them.

Does Greek cucumber salad need dressing?

A simple drizzle of olive oil with oregano and pepper is enough and though you can add lemon juice or red wine vinegar if you want a tangier version.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Greek cucumber salad a try! It’s one of my favorites, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below or share your results with me! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite healthy salad board to keep it handy for any occasion.

Happy Cooking!

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