Are you ready to whip up a vibrant and refreshing dish that will brighten your table in just 10 minutes? I know I am! This Easy Greek Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners or a light side dish to complement your favorite easy pasta recipes, this salad is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes!
- Loaded with fresh, vibrant ingredients that scream summer.
- Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or serve as a refreshing lunch.
- Can easily be made dairy-free by omitting the feta cheese.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Greek Cucumber Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced or diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon grape juice + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful salad:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. You want everything to be bite-sized for easy eating!
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and your freshly chopped herbs (parsley, dill, and mint). The colors will be vibrant and inviting!
- Add the Feta Cheese: If you love feta, now’s the time to sprinkle in the crumbled cheese. It adds a creamy, salty kick to the salad. If you’re going for a dairy-free option, feel free to skip this step!
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will be the delicious dressing that ties everything together.
- Combine the Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until well combined. You want every piece of veggie and herb to get a nice coating of dressing!
- Season to Taste: Give your salad a taste. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up. Adjust it to your liking!
- Chill Out: Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows all those delightful flavors to mingle together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve this salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, or enjoy it as a light meal on its own. It’s a perfect addition to any Mediterranean meal!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your Greek Cucumber Salad:
- For an extra crunch, consider adding bell peppers or radishes.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist.
- If you’re a fan of olives, they make a great addition for a briny flavor.
- Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs just won’t cut it!
- For a heartier meal, serve this salad over a bed of quinoa or couscous.
How to Serve
This Greek Cucumber Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve it alongside your favorite 30-minute meals for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy it as a light lunch with some crusty bread.
- It’s also a fantastic addition to any potluck or picnic!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare this salad in advance, it’s a great idea! Here’s how to store it:
- Make the salad up to a day in advance, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For best results, consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
So there you have it! A delightful, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this Cucumber Greek Salad Recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!
Easy Greek Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and prepare vegetables: slice cucumbers and red onion, halve cherry tomatoes.
- Combine vegetables and herbs in a large bowl.
- Add crumbled feta cheese if desired.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently. Chill for 15 minutes before serving.