Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad

There’s something irresistible about a fresh, vibrant salad that brings together simple ingredients and turns them into a burst of Mediterranean flavors. This Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad is exactly that—a refreshing, colorful dish perfect for warm days, light lunches, or as a side to your favorite grilled dishes. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and briny Kalamata olives, all tossed in a zesty oregano and red wine vinegar dressing, makes this salad a culinary staple that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad stands out because it balances freshness and bold flavors in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to throw together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Unlike heavier salads, this one feels light and refreshing yet satisfying, thanks to the creamy feta and hearty olives. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect on its own, paired with grilled meats, or even spooned onto crusty bread for a quick, Mediterranean-inspired snack. Whether you’re a seasoned salad lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe promises a tasty, wholesome experience with every forkful.

Ingredients

• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, making sure to remove any excess seeds if you prefer a less watery salad. Dice the cucumber similarly, keeping the skin on for extra crunch and nutrients. Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp bite, and dice the bell pepper into small cubes. Place all these colorful veggies into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the Olives and Feta

Next, pit and halve the Kalamata olives, then add them to the bowl. Their salty, slightly bitter flavor complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers. Crumble the feta cheese over the top — it adds a creamy tang that’s signature to any Greek salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk or shake well until it emulsifies into a smooth dressing that will coat the salad beautifully.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until all the veggies are evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors, or chill for 10–15 minutes to let the dressing meld with the vegetables.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe tomatoes: The sweetness and juiciness of fresh, ripe tomatoes make a huge difference in flavor.
• Slice onions thinly: Thin slices help balance their pungency and distribute their flavor more evenly.
• Let the salad rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a short time helps the flavors marry beautifully.
• Choose quality olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil with a rich, fruity flavor elevates the entire dish.
• Don’t overdo the vinegar: Start with less and add more if you like a tangier salad.

Variations and Customizations

• Add fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, dill, or mint can brighten the salad even more.
• Include greens: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for added texture and nutrition.
• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this salad a filling main course.
• Swap the feta: Try vegan feta or a mild cheese like mozzarella for a different taste.
• Use different olives: Green olives or oil-cured black olives offer a unique twist.

Dietary Adaptations

This Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. For a vegan option, simply replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether. The salad is also perfect for those watching their carbs, thanks to its fresh vegetable base and healthy fats from olive oil. To make it nut-free and allergy-friendly, avoid adding any nuts or seeds. It’s a wholesome dish that suits a wide range of dietary preferences without any complicated substitutions.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days for peak freshness. Keep the salad dressing separate if possible, to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy. When ready to serve again, give it a gentle toss and add a splash of fresh olive oil or vinegar if needed to revive the flavors. Avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh vegetables and cheese don’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

FAQ

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of medium tomatoes?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes work wonderfully in this salad. Just halve or quarter them to keep the bite-sized texture consistent.

Is it okay to use white vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

While white vinegar can be used in a pinch, red wine vinegar provides a richer, more authentic flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients better.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Mix together and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! Ingredients like radishes, carrots, or even avocado can add new textures and flavors. Just be mindful of how additional veggies will blend with the classic Greek salad taste.

Conclusion

This Tomato and Cucumber Greek Salad is a timeless recipe that brings together fresh, simple ingredients to create a dish full of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a side to grilled meats, or a colorful addition to any meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and incredibly delicious, this salad is a wonderful example of how uncomplicated ingredients can shine when combined with care and a great dressing. So grab your freshest tomatoes and cucumbers, and enjoy the bright, wholesome taste of this classic Greek-inspired salad today!

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