Greek Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 0 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Difficulty: Easy

• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek-inspired

Ingredients

For the salad

• 1 large cucumber, sliced

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese, cut into a block or cubes

• ½ cup green olives

• ¼ cup Kalamata olives

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano

• A pinch of paprika, optional

For the dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• A small pinch of salt, if needed

Note: Feta and olives are already salty, so taste the salad before adding extra salt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

1. Wash the cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, and dill.

2. Slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons.

3. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.

4. Thinly slice the red onion.

5. Drain the green and Kalamata olives.

Step 2: Make the dressing

1. Add olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic (if using), oregano, and black pepper to a small bowl.

2. Whisk until well combined.

3. Taste and adjust the lemon juice or seasoning as desired.

Step 3: Assemble the salad

1. Place the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives in a large serving bowl.

2. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley and dill.

3. Pour most of the dressing over the vegetables.

4. Toss gently so the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Add the feta cheese

1. Place the feta block on top of the salad, or arrange feta cubes in the center.

2. Sprinkle with oregano, black pepper, and optional paprika.

3. Drizzle the remaining dressing and a little olive oil over the feta.

4. Garnish with fresh herbs and a few olives.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest, crispiest texture. You can also refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings.

Nutrition varies depending on the feta, olives, and amount of dressing used.

Nut Information & Allergens

• Peanuts: None included.

• Tree nuts: None included.

• Dairy: Contains feta cheese, usually made from sheep’s milk, goat’s milk, or a combination.

• Gluten: No gluten-containing ingredients in the standard recipe; check packaged ingredients if you have an allergy.

• Eggs: None included.

• Soy: None intentionally included in the standard recipe.

• Sesame: None included in the standard recipe.

Allergy note: Check the labels on feta, olives, and other packaged ingredients for allergen and cross-contact warnings. If preparing food for someone with a serious allergy, use ingredients verified safe for them.

Helpful Tips

• Reduce the sharpness of onion: Soak sliced red onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes, then drain.

• Keep the salad crisp: Add the dressing just before serving.

• Choose good feta: A firm block of feta gives the salad the appearance shown in your photo.

• Adjust the salt: Taste before adding any extra because the cheese and olives can be salty.

• Make it a full meal: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or cooked quinoa.

• For a dairy-free option: Replace feta with a suitable dairy-free alternative.

Questions & Answers

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. Chop the vegetables and store them separately from the dressing and feta. Combine everything shortly before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I use only green olives?

Absolutely. Green olives work well on their own, or you can combine them with Kalamata olives for a deeper flavor.

Q: Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes. Use 2 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best quality. The cucumber and tomatoes may release liquid over time.

Q: What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, pita bread, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean rice bowls.

Q: Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, if the feta is made with vegetarian-friendly rennet. Check the cheese label if this matters to you.

Enjoy your fresh Greek Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad!