If you are looking for a vibrant, zesty, and healthy dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, the Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe is absolutely perfect. This salad combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta in a harmonious blend that is simple yet incredibly satisfying. The touch of olive oil, tangy red wine vinegar, and fragrant oregano elevate every bite, making it an ideal dish for warm days, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a fresh taste of Greece on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and the freshness of each ingredient. Every component plays an essential role in creating a balance of flavors, textures, and colors, which is the hallmark of a great salad.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes (2 pints): Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- English cucumber (1, diced): Its mild flavor and crisp texture add a refreshing crunch.
- Feta cheese (8 oz, cubed): The salty creaminess perfectly complements the fresh vegetables.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a bright herbal note and lovely green contrast.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): Brings richness and depth, while enhancing the salad’s Mediterranean character.
- Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons): Offers a tangy lift that balances the creamy feta.
- Garlic cloves (2, finely minced): Infuses the salad with a subtle savory punch.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): The traditional herb adds an irresistible earthy aroma.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just a touch of warmth to round out the dish.
How to Make Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Begin by dicing the cucumbers and halving the tomatoes so each bite offers a combination of juicy and crisp textures. Cube the feta to create small, creamy morsels that will melt in your mouth. Don’t forget to chop the fresh parsley finely and mince the garlic to release its aroma throughout the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables and Cheese
In a spacious mixing bowl, gently toss together the cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cubes, and parsley. This no-fuss assembly ensures every piece is evenly distributed, so no forkful is without flavor.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper right on top. These simple ingredients form a tangy, aromatic dressing that brings all the fresh elements together beautifully.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Use salad tongs or two large spoons to toss the salad gently but thoroughly. Your goal is to coat everything in that flavorful dressing without breaking up the delicate feta cubes. Serve immediately for the freshest crunch or chill to let the flavors mingle.
How to Serve Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your salad with a few extra feta crumbles or a sprinkle of freshly chopped mint to brighten the dish even more. A wedge of lemon on the side lets guests add a personalized citrus burst if desired.
Side Dishes
This salad shines alongside grilled meats like chicken or lamb and pairs beautifully with pita bread or warm flatbreads for a complete Mediterranean spread. It’s also a perfect light companion to hearty dishes like moussaka or spanakopita.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in individual glass cups for a fresh party appetizer or layer it over quinoa or couscous for a more substantial meal. For picnics, pack it in a tight-sealing container and toss gently before serving to recapture its vibrant appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The salad tends to soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days to maintain its crispness.
Freezing
Due to the fresh vegetables and feta, freezing this salad is not recommended as the texture will degrade. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is served cold and does not require reheating. Simply give it a gentle stir after taking it out of the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Absolutely! Just peel and remove the seeds if you use regular cucumbers to avoid bitterness and extra water in the salad.
Is feta cheese necessary in this salad?
Feta adds the signature salty creaminess that balances fresh veggies, but goat cheese or mozzarella can be a tasty substitute if needed.
What kind of tomatoes works best?
Sweet grape or cherry tomatoes are ideal because they stay firm and add juicy bursts of flavor; avoid watery or underripe tomatoes.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! Simply replace feta with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it altogether and add extra herbs and nuts for texture.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Serve it as soon as it is tossed and avoid adding dressing too far in advance. Also, draining excess liquid from cucumbers helps maintain crunch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe that brightens any meal and transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast with every bite. Its simplicity, freshness, and vibrant flavors are guaranteed to become a fast favorite, so give it a try soon—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Refreshing Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish perfect for warm days or as a healthy side. Combining crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano, this salad bursts with Mediterranean flavors. It serves 8 and can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for up to 5 days, making it both convenient and delicious.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Cheese
- 2 pints grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, cut into small cubes
- 8 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
Dressing and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Dice the English cucumber into small cubes, halve the grape or cherry tomatoes, cut the feta cheese into cubes, and finely chop the parsley. Mince the garlic cloves finely as well.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed cucumber, halved tomatoes, feta cubes, and chopped parsley. Mix gently to combine the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Add dressing and seasoning: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad mixture. Add the minced garlic, then sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly on top.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad with a spoon or salad tongs until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing and seasonings. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, but fresh is best.
- Use Greek feta for authentic flavor; it is typically saltier and creamier.
- For extra crunch, add sliced red onions or Kalamata olives if desired.
- Adjust salt to taste, as feta cheese is naturally salty.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light vegetarian meal.
