There’s something irresistibly refreshing about a Greek cucumber tomato salad that makes my taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine the crispness of fresh cucumbers mingling with juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes, all drizzled with a tangy dressing that whispers sweet nothings to your palate. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of summer in every bite, promising an explosion of flavors that will have you longing for more.
Every time I whip up this Greek cucumber tomato salad, I’m transported back to warm afternoons spent on my grandmother’s porch, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the olive oil drizzled over her famous salad. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish always steals the spotlight. So grab your apron and prepare for a delightful journey through flavor town.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing Greek cucumber tomato salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients, each bite feels like sunshine on your plate.
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal, and it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or serve as a light lunch.
I remember the first time I made this salad for a gathering; everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! The compliments kept pouring in like the olive oil over those bright veggies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cucumbers: Look for firm, crisp cucumbers without blemishes; they add a refreshing crunch.
Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes for their juicy sweetness; heirloom varieties are particularly delightful.
Red Onion: A small amount adds zesty flavor; soak in water first if you want milder notes.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings creaminess and tang; use quality cheese for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin is key here; its rich flavor elevates the whole dish beautifully.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled for the best taste.
Oregano: Dried oregano gives authentic Mediterranean flair; it’s like summer in spice form.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all other flavors—don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad
Chop Your Veggies: Start by dicing those cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity so they mix well together and look fabulous on your plate.
Add the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and chop it into smaller pieces. If you’re not ready to face potent onion breath, give them a quick soak in cold water first.
Toss in Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese over your chopped veggies like confetti at a party! It adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of cucumbers and tomatoes.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined. The aroma will be irresistible!
Combine Everything Together: Pour your dressing over the chopped salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is coated nicely. Just be careful not to crush those delicate tomatoes!
Let It Chill Out!: Allow your Greek cucumber tomato salad to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps marry all those incredible flavors together—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Now you’re ready to serve this colorful masterpiece! Enjoy it as a side dish or let it shine on its own as part of a light lunch—a true Mediterranean delight that’ll have everyone singing its praises.
You Must Know
- This delightful Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad brings a burst of freshness to your table.
- It’s perfect for hot days, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your palate.
- The combination of crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes creates a symphony of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping the cucumbers and tomatoes first, then mix in the dressing while you prepare other ingredients. This ensures maximum flavor infusion and keeps veggies crisp and fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients with what’s in your fridge! Feta cheese or olives can add an exciting twist, making each salad uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor; they make all the difference.
- Always season your salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
- Experiment with herbs like oregano or parsley to elevate the taste profile further.
Sharing Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad with friends brought smiles all around at our last picnic; it was the star of the show!
FAQ
How can I make my Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad more filling?
Add protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
What’s the best way to cut cucumbers for this salad?
Slice them thinly for a refreshing crunch or into chunks for a heartier bite.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties work wonderfully, adding unique flavors.
Refreshing Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad
This Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad is a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed with tangy feta cheese and a zesty olive oil dressing, creating an irresistible dish perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this salad is not just a meal—it’s a refreshing experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water for milder flavor if desired.
- In a large bowl, combine diced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added protein, mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken. Feel free to customize by adding olives or swapping herbs for different flavor profiles. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days; best enjoyed cold.
