How to Make a Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian preferred), diced
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional, for added freshness)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by dicing the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Keep the size consistent for an evenly textured salad. Finely chop the red onion and place all the veggies into a large salad bowl.
Add the Olives and Cheese
Toss in the halved Kalamata olives for a briny, savory taste. If you’re using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad for a creamy, salty bite that pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies.
Herb It Up
Sprinkle in the chopped parsley and mint leaves. Fresh herbs are the key to elevating the flavors of this simple salad.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and dried oregano. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad, gently tossing everything together to ensure the vegetables are well-coated in the olive oil mixture.
Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This gives the ingredients time to meld together, creating a vibrant and refreshing salad.
Why This Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad Will Wow Your Taste Buds
The combination of juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and tangy olives creates a harmonious balance of freshness and richness. The crisp texture of the vegetables pairs wonderfully with the smooth, bold olive oil, making every bite satisfying and invigorating.
Nutritional Benefits of Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
This salad isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with health benefits. Cucumbers provide hydration and essential vitamins, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene. The olive oil dressing offers heart-healthy fats, and adding feta cheese provides a source of calcium and protein.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
- No Cooking Required: Ideal for hot days when you want something light yet flavorful without turning on the stove.
- Customizable: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or swap out the herbs to suit your personal taste.
- Naturally Gluten-Free and Keto-Friendly: A great choice for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t Make These Mistakes With Your Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad!
- Using Too Much Salt: Since olives and feta are already salty, be cautious with your salt addition. Taste as you go to avoid overpowering the salad.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs won’t bring the same brightness and zest as fresh parsley and mint, which are essential to the salad’s Mediterranean flair.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much olive oil or vinegar can make the vegetables soggy. Start with a small amount, then adjust to your liking.
This Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad is a perfect blend of refreshing flavors and satisfying textures. It’s ideal for summer gatherings, light lunches, or a nutritious side dish at dinner.