Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad
Introduction
Few things are as refreshing as a crisp, colorful salad on a warm day. This Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta Salad is a beautiful balance of fresh, juicy vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a light, zesty dressing. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of summer picnics, family barbecues, or quick lunches on the patio. With its Mediterranean flair, this salad brings bright, tangy flavors to any table—and it takes just minutes to make.
Fun fact: Variations of this salad are enjoyed all over the Mediterranean, from Greece to Turkey to Lebanon, each with its own little twist.
Pro Tip
For the freshest flavor, use vine-ripened tomatoes and English cucumbers—they have fewer seeds, thinner skin, and a sweeter, milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: Serve this salad alongside grilled protein for a light, healthy meal.
- Pita Bread or Flatbread: Scoop it up with warm bread for a satisfying snack or side.
- Picnic or Potluck: It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, staying fresh even after a couple of hours.
Variations
- Vegan Option: Omit the feta or use plant-based feta alternatives for a completely vegan salad.
- Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and richness, diced avocado pairs beautifully here.
- Olive Lovers’ Version: Add sliced Kalamata or green olives for a briny, salty pop.
- Herb Boost: Mix in fresh chopped mint or dill for a new herbal twist on flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables safely and neatly.
- Sharp Knife: To easily cut through tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing everything together evenly.
- Small Whisk or Fork: To quickly mix the dressing ingredients.
Tips for Success
- Slice the cucumbers and tomatoes evenly so every bite has balanced flavor.
- Use block feta and crumble it yourself—it has better texture and flavor than pre-crumbled.
- Salt the tomatoes lightly before adding them to the salad for enhanced sweetness.
- Chill the salad for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best refreshing bite.
- Add the feta last and toss gently to keep it from breaking apart too much.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is everything we love about fresh, wholesome eating: crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and a light dressing that brings it all together. It’s quick, adaptable, and fits seamlessly into any meal—whether you’re making a big dinner spread or just want a quick, healthy bite. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped cucumber (preferably English cucumber)
- 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables: Chop the cucumbers, halve the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- Add feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad. Toss gently again, being careful not to break up the cheese too much.
- Garnish & serve: Top with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Nutrition Table (Estimated Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180 | 5g | 8g | 14g | 2g | 5g | 300mg |
Estimates may vary depending on exact ingredients and serving sizes.
FAQ
1. How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep the veggies and dressing separately up to a day ahead. Combine just before serving.
3. Can I substitute the feta?
Absolutely. Goat cheese or plant-based feta alternatives work beautifully here.
4. Can I freeze this salad?
No, fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes don’t freeze well—they lose their texture.
5. How can I reduce the sharpness of red onions?
Soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad to mellow the flavor.
